Training of Roma Health Mediators in Reproductive Health

Trainer document
MALE CONDOM (presentation)
The condom is a thin, latex rubber sheath placed on the erect penis before penetration
into the vagina, forming a mechanical barrier between the penis and the vagina. Some
condoms are covered with a lubricant or with spermicidal substances.
Mechanism of Action
The condom protects against unwanted pregnancy and against STIs by covering the erect
penis during intercourse. The male seminal fluid (or semen), containing sperm and
(sometimes) disease-causing organisms, are caught in the condom and do not pass
through it.
Effectiveness
Condoms can be very effective when used consistently and correctly. Using a condom
with vaginal spermicide increases its effectiveness.
Advantages
Contraceptive benefits:
• Easy to use
• Easy to obtain
• Inexpensive
• Safe and effective
• Allows the man to share responsibility for family planning
• Convenient when need for short-term contraception is required
• Can be easily used by breastfeeding mothers as it does not affect lactation
Non-contraceptive benefits or other advantages of condom:
• Provides protection against STIs & HIV/AIDS to both partners
• Helps protect against cancer of the cervix, which can be caused by STIs
• Helps some men with premature ejaculation maintain an erection because of the
rim around the base of the penis
• Protects women from pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and its complications
like infertility due to the blockage of fallopian tubes
Disadvantages
• Must be used at the time of intercourse (interferes with sexual intercourse)
• Some men complain of decrease in sexual pleasure
• Slipping off, tearing, spillage of sperm can occur especially among inexperienced
users
• User must be highly motivated to use condoms consistently and correctly
• Deteriorates quickly when storage conditions are poor
• Some people may be embarrassed to purchase the condoms, to discuss them with
their partner or to use them.
Side Effects of Condoms
• Rare allergy to rubber (latex)
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RFHI/JSI Romania Training of RHMs in Reproductive Health Session 4: FP Methods