subject: Understanding Condoms: Are They Effective? [print this page] All forms of contraception are designed for the purpose of preventing pregnancy, but condoms stand out for having the added feature of also protecting you against infection by HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Of course, as with any method of contraception, the question of effectiveness always becomes a hot topic of discussion, more so for condoms, which are by far, the cheapest and most common form of contraceptive.
So are condoms really effective in preventing pregnancy? How effective are they when it comes to keeping STDs away? Read on to find out.
Pregnancy
As far as preventing pregnancies, your ordinary latex condom is more effective at the job than you give it credit for. While its true that no form of contraception is completely effective at preventing pregnancy, when used correctly and consistently, condoms are right the cream of the crop when it comes to preventing unwanted pregnancy. Of course, a condoms failure will depend on how its used, the same way the pill can fail if used properly. Still, multiple studies on condom effectiveness against pregnancy are promising, with research showing a consistent efficacy rate of at least 95% to 98%.
Protection against HIV and STDs
To test the effectiveness of the ordinary latex condom in protecting against HIV and STDs, multiple studies in North America and Europe have put the condom to rigorous testing. Many of these tests involve couples with one partner having HIV, and the other free of it. One European study involving over 120 of these couples using condoms consistently showed that none of the STD- and HIV-free partners were infected.
Failure Rate of Condoms
The problem with failing condoms lies not in defective condoms and condoms unable to withstand sexual activity, but in the incorrect use and storage of these contraceptive methods. For instance, oil-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly are notorious at weakening latex condoms. Likewise, condoms stored in wallets also become weaker due to heat and being squeezed.
Condoms have to be handled properly if you dont want them to fail. If theyre used correctly and consistently, they have a near 100% success rate.
Are Condoms Tested Before Being Sold?
Regardless of what type of condom it is, be they vegan condoms, lambskin condoms or common latex condoms, each and every condom a brand name condom maker produces goes through rigorous quality assurance tests. Tests such as air inflation are the most commonly known; it involves inflating a condom with 40 liters and more until it bursts.
