Condoms are one of the barrier methods of contraception. They are a means of birth control by helping to prevent pregnancies.
Male and female condoms exist, but the most common ones are males. A male condom also called an external condom, is easily accessible, inexpensive, and easy to use.
Even though the primary purpose of using condoms is birth control, it can also benefit the user. One such benefit is to protect against sexually transmitted infections or diseases (STIs or STDs) during vaginal, oral, or anal sex.
Remember that too much of a good is bad for you, not to mention how detrimental it may be to your health. Male condoms are utterly safe to use, except in a few cases where they can lead to side effects.
Here are a few things you should know and be prepared for when you use condoms during sexual intercourse;
Risk to partner’s health
It has been said that male condoms can cause cancer in a woman. This is simply due to talc, a dry lubricant used on the surface of condoms. Talc has been linked to ovarian cancer and fibrosis in fallopian tubes, making the woman infertile.
Allergy
Condoms are made up of thin latex (rubber), polyisoprene, or polyurethane, created to prevent pregnancy by holding back sperm from fertilising an egg. However, latex can activate allergy in both partners, leading to rash, hives, and a running nose. It can even tighten the airways and decrease blood pressure in complicated cases.
If you’re allergic to latex or if your partner is, then you should opt for a lambskin or polyurethane condom. However, both types are more expensive than the latex type.
Reduced sensitivity
The available condoms these days are, in most cases, extra thin to heighten sensitivity during the lovemaking session. Yet, some people are expressing their displeasure about its reduced sensitivity when they use condoms as a means of contraception.
They profess that the pleasure during intercourse is reduced due to the latex barrier. In such cases, it is recommended to use oral contraceptive methods and IUDs. However, these methods are better to use if you’re engaged with one partner as they don’t prevent STDs or STIs.
And if you’re considering other options for contraception, you should book an appointment to speak with a doctor. They are ready to assist you in choosing the best possible method for you.