A non-invasive birth control alternative is the condom, a sheath usually made
of latex that fits either over the penis or inside the vagina. Condoms collect
semen and prevent sperm from entering a woman’s vagina, preventing
fertilization. Condoms are touted as the best form of contraception to protect
users from sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, the virus that causes
AIDS.
Condoms are available dry or with a lubrication that may include a spermicide
for added protection. With perfect use, condoms provide a 98% success rate in
preventing pregnancy, but typical use generally garners a rate of about 85%.
This means that 15 out of 100 women who use condoms will become pregnant during
the first year. When used in conjunction with spermicidal creams or jellies, or
with a sponge, the prevention rate increases. It should be noted that frequent
use of the spermicide nonoxynol-9, a common lubrication chemical, can irritate
tissue and lead to a higher risk of contracting an STD, including HIV.
Condoms may be purchased over the counter in any grocery store or convenience
store and are an inexpensive birth control method.
Some men report a dulling in sensation and dislike interrupting the sexual
encounter to put on a condom, but many couples report feeling more comfortable
during sex and foreplay because the worry of pregnancy and disease is
diminished. There are no side effects with condoms, except in individuals who
are allergic to latex—generally 1-2% of the population.
Withdrawal
Withdrawal occurs when a man removes his penis from the vagina before
ejaculating, thus preventing sperm from entering the vagina. Withdrawal alone
has a relatively high failure rate; roughly 27 women out of 100 will become
pregnant within a year of typical use. Perfect use yields a failure rate of
about 4%.
The benefit of withdrawal is that it can be used when no other method is
readily available. One major drawback is that pre-ejaculate, which occurs during
intercourse, contains enough sperm to cause pregnancy, and often occurs without
the knowledge of either partner. Withdrawal has no side effects, but requires a
great deal of self-control and trust for success. It is not recommended for men
who ejaculate prematurely or are sexually inexperienced. Withdrawal does not
protect either partner from STDs, including HIV/AIDS.