Frequently Asked Questions about Condoms

Q: How effective are condoms ?
A: The answer to that question varies depending on the particular brand name and type of condom you are talking about. However, it is reasonable to state that all of the condoms that are worth using are more than 95% effective and that the vast majority of them are 99%+ effective. There is a vast myth going around at the current moment in time that this particular method of contraception is actually not that effective, but the truth of the matter is that condoms are one of the most reliable products around. That is why they are central to most of the contraception campaigns that are run within the political realm.
Q: Is it possible to wear condoms and still end up with problems?
A: Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes. The reason for this has to do more with the way in which condoms work however than any particular design deficiency in a particular product. The basic goal of a condom is to catch all of the ejaculate before it can enter the woman’s vaginal cavity while at the same time shielding the penis from becoming covered in any of the woman’s sexual fluid. The dual purpose of the prevention of fluid mixing in this case is to a) prevent pregnancy and b) prevent the transmission of any diseases. Since the sex cells of both men and women are microscopic however, it is possible for one to penetrate the condom either way and in doing so potentially cause a problem. This is why most condoms companies state that their products are 99.9% effective, since the odd event can happen otherwise.
Q: Is there anyway to make sure that condoms can be effective 100% of the time?
A: In practical terms, the answer to the question is yes. If you combine the use of condoms with other methods of contraception (such as birth control pills, a diaphragm or both a male and female condom being used at once), you will significantly decrease the chance that anything will happen as a result of the sex. While condoms are nearly perfect on their own, combining birth control methods can make it all but impossible for something to happen during sex. For legal reasons, companies that manufacture contraceptives will still state that their products are only effective 99.9% of the time, but it is extremely unlikely that something could happen when two or more contraception methods are in play at once.
Q: Is there any particular brand of condom I should purchase?
A: Ultimately, this is a private matter that you need to decide on your own. There are statistics available regarding different companies and the success of their condom products, but in the end all of the reputable companies put products out on the market that are extremely good. That having been said however, whether the condoms you choose are Trojan, Durex, Lifestyles or another brand of condoms, there are differences in terms of flavour, accessories and material, which is why you need to make a preferential decision on your own.