The condom can offer several advantages as a method of contraception.

• You only need to use them during sex
• They help to protect both partners from some sexually transmitted infections, including HIV
• There are no serious side-effects from using condoms
• Male condoms come in a variety of shapes and sizes
• Male condoms are easily available.

When deciding if the condom is right for you, here are a few quick facts you should consider:

• Male condoms can sometimes slip off or split
• Some people are sensitive to latex condoms, though this is rare
• When using a male condom, the man has to pull out after he has ejaculated, and before the penis goes soft, holding the condom firmly in place.

The male condom is a thin rubber sheath that goes over the penis during sex.

The condom is a barrier that stops a man's semen from entering into the woman, preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

To be effective it is very important that condoms are used correctly. They need to be used properly every time a couple has sex. This means wearing it throughout the entire sex act, and using a new one every time.

Tips for good condom use:

• Use a new condom each time you have sex. Check the 'use by' date on the packet. Be careful how you take the condom out of the packet – sharp fingernails and jewellery can tear the condom
• Find the teat or closed end and squeeze it to get rid of air. This will also help you roll the condom on the right way around
• Put the condom on when the penis is fully erect and before it touches the vagina or genital area
• Still holding the end, roll the condom all the way down the penis
• If it won’t roll down, then it’s probably on inside out. If so, start again with a new condom as sperm could now be on the first one
• If you have foreskin, you may find it easier and more comfortable to put the condom on if the foreskin is pulled back. This lets the foreskin move freely and reduces the risk of the condom tearing or slipping off
• As soon as the man has ejaculated, and before the penis goes soft, hold the condom firmly in place while pulling out. Do this slowly and carefully so you do not spill any semen (the ejaculation fluid that contains sperm)
• Take off the condom, wrap it and put it in a bin
• Make sure the penis does not touch the genital area again, and if you have sex again, use a new condom.

If your condom breaks or slips off, you may need to use emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy.

Please note that as well as pregnancy, unprotected sex can put you at risk of STIs.