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Condoms Condoms--made of latex, polyurethane, or natural skin--are used by the male partner to prevent pregnancy by acting as a barrier against sperm. Among couples with average fertility, condoms have about a 14% failure rate annually. On a per usage basis, 2-6% break or fall off during intercourse. Latex and polyurethane condoms are popular because they are inexpensive, help prevent STDs, and can be found in drug stores and vending machines. Considerations for Teens: Condoms are far less effective when used by teens. One study reported a failure rate of 18% when used by people under the age of 18. And although condoms will help reduce your risk of contracting diseases like HIV, condoms can break, leak, or slip, which means you are still at risk if your partner is infected. One study found that among sexually active teen girls, 30% contracted an STD over a six month period, even when condoms were used consistently. Condoms are not effective in preventing all STDs. Considerations for Single Adults: Among fertile couples, only abstinence is 100% effective in preventing pregnancy. And if you or your partner had sexual contact with any one else, he or she could be infected with an STD without knowing it, putting you at risk. Although condoms will help reduce the risk of both pregnancy and many STDs, there is still a significant risk because condoms can and do break, and couples do not always use them properly. Condoms are not effective in preventing all STDs. Considerations for Married Couples: Compared to hormonal methods, condoms pose few health risks, and they are relatively easy to use. But keep in mind that with a 14% annual failure rate, the odds are that after using condoms continuously for several years, you will eventually experience a surprise pregnancy. Talk to your mate about this possibility ahead of time. If you choose condoms, have a plan for what to do when a condom breaks.
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Spermicide
WARNING!
