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Male condom is a barrier method of birth control with no prescription needed and easy to use. To achieve contraceptive result, it has to be put on a man’s erected penis before intercourse to prevent semen from entering the vagina and meeting with the egg.

According to statistics, the percentage of women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy within the first year of use is 3-14%. Since male condom is put on prior to each intercourse, human error may deteriorate the protective rate. Therefore, those who choose to use this contraceptive method have to be cautious in doing it correctly and consistently.

Using male condom the right way:

1. Check the package to ensure it is intact and has not expired.

2. Tear open the package carefully. Gently press out the condom. Be careful not to damage it with sharp fingernails.

3. Make sure the condom is put on an erected penis before getting into contact with female genitals or vagina.

4. Expel air from the tip of the condom by squeezing or twisting it, and place the condom on the erected penis.

5. Carefully unroll it until it covers the whole penis.

6. If the condom is not pre-lubed, it is suggested to put on spermicidal foam as a lubricant agent as well as to achieve better contraceptive result. Do not use oil-based substances to avoid breaking the condom. Water-based lubricants, such as KY Jelly, are a good choice to use with condoms.

7. After ejaculation, the condom must be held in place when the penis is withdrawn, taking care that no seminal fluid is spilt.

8. A new condom should be used for each intercourse.

Male condom is made with very thin and soft latex. The average thickness of a condom is 0.04-0.07mm. According to ISO air burst standard, male condoms should be able to endure bursting pressure of 13-15kg. There are no side effects from using male condoms. However, those who are allergic to rubber products or contraceptive foam are not recommended to use.

Male condom can act as a barrier from preventing direct contact between the penis and vagina. Therefore, it can help protect against sexually transmissible diseases. Using condoms can also result in a lower risk of pelvic inflammatory disease and cervical cancer. Male condom will not affect one’s fertility.

Male condom, as a kind of rubber product, should be stored in a cool and dry place. It is recommended to put condoms out of reach from children.