Condom is a sheath-shaped barrier device that may be used during sexual intercourse to reduce the probability of pregnancy and spreading STI’s/STD’s e.g. HIV/AIDs.

• It is rolled onto an erect penis before intercourse and blocks ejaculated semen from entering the body of a sexual partner
• Condoms are most often made from latex, but some are made from other materials e.g. polyurethane, polyisoprene, or lamb intestine
• A female condom is also available, often made of nitrile

• Condoms are also used during fellatio and for collection of semen for use in infertility Tx
• As a method of birth control, male condoms have the advantages of being inexpensive, easy to use, having few side effects, and offering protection against STD’s
• With proper knowledge and application technique, and use at every act of intercourse, women whose partners use male condoms experience a 2% per year pregnancy rate with perfect use, and an 18% per year pregnancy rate with typical use

• Condoms have been used for at least 400 years
• Since the 19th century, they have been one of the most popular methods of contraception in the world
• While widely accepted in modern times, condoms have generated some controversy, primarily over what role they should play in sex education classes.