Hormones 2016

Condoms
Condoms with spermicide
Some male condoms come with spermicide on them. Spermicide is a
chemical that kills sperm. These condoms are slowly being phased out, as
research has found that a spermicide called nonoxynol 9 does not protect
against STI’s such as chlamydia and HIV, and may even increase the risk
of infection. It is best to avoid using spermicide-lubricated condoms, or
spermicide as an additional lubricant (NHS, 2015e).
When should I use lubricants with a condom?
Most male condoms come ready lubricated to make them easier to use.
Some people also like to use additional lubrication. Any lubricant can be
used with male polyurethane condoms.
However, if you are using a male latex or polyisoprene condom you
should never use oil-based products - such as body oils, creams, lotions or
petroleum jelly - as a lubricant. This is because they can cause damage and
make the condom more likely to split.
Some ointments can also damage latex or polyisoprene. If you are
using medication in the genital area - for example, creams, pessaries, or
suppositories - ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if it will affect latex or
polyisoprene condoms.
You can check the condom packaging to find out whether a condom is made
from latex, polyurethane or polyisoprene.
Some condoms don’t have any lubricant on them so that you can choose not
to use lubricant, or to use a lubricant of your own choice (fpa, 2016).
Who can use condoms?
Most people can safely use condoms. There are many different varieties and
brands of male condom, and it’s up to you and your partner which type of
condom you use. However, condoms may not be the most suitable method
of contraception for everyone.
• Some men and women are sensitive to the chemicals in latex condoms.
If this is a problem, polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms have a
lower risk of causing an allergic reaction.
• Men who have difficulty keeping an erection may not be able to use
male condoms, as the penis must be erect to prevent semen leaking
from the condom, or the condom slipping off (NHS, 2015e).
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