What is it?
A very thin latex (rubber) or polyurethane (plastic) sheath that is put over the erect penis.
Effectiveness?
If used according to the instructions it can be 98% effective.
Advantages?
Condoms are the best way to help protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Disadvantages?
It may slip off or split if not used correctly or if it’s the wrong shape or size. Plus you have to think and remember to use one every time you have sex.
A good choice for?
Breastfeeding mums, women who aren't comfortable taking hormones, women who want the freedom to have sex without having to insert or apply anything to their bodies beforehand, and smokers.
NOT a good choice for?
Women or men who are allergic to latex.
What is it?
A soft, thin polyurethane (plastic) sheath that loosely lines the vagina and covers the area just outside.
Effectiveness?
If used according to the instructions is can be 95% effective.
Advantages?
Condoms are the best way to help protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Disadvantages?
They’re not as widely available as male condoms and you have to think and remember to use one every time you have sex.
A good choice for?
Breastfeeding mums, women who aren't comfortable taking hormones, women who want the freedom to have sex without having to insert or apply anything to their bodies beforehand, and smokers.
NOT a good choice for?
Women who are squeamish about inserting a device into their body before sex, women or men who are allergic to latex or spermicides (although female condoms are made of polyurethane, not latex, you may have a reaction).
What is it?
A flexible latex (rubber) or silicone device, used with spermicide, which is put into the vagina to cover the cervix.
Effectiveness?
If used according to instructions latex types are 92-96% effective however silicone caps are less effective.
Advantages?
It may protect you against some STIs and cervical cancer.
Disadvantages?
Putting it in can interrupt sex, you have to remember to use one and if you have sex again extra spermicide is needed.
A good choice for?
Women who aren't comfortable taking hormones, breastfeeding mums, women who feel comfortable inserting a device into their body before sex and smokers.
NOT a good choice for?
Women who are squeamish about inserting a device into their body before sex, women who are allergic to latex or spermicides (which are necessary for them to work) and women who don't want the hassle of using spermicidal jelly or cream (which are necessary for them to work).