Condoms are one type of contraceptive that not only helps to prevent pregnancy but also protects against sexually transmitted diseases like HIV and herpes. Male condoms are most commonly used in Indonesia.

Male condoms are made of various materials, including latex, polyurethane, and polyisoprene. Condoms prevent sperm from reaching the egg by containing the ejaculate within the condom. As safe as it sounds, is it possible to become pregnant while wearing a condom?

Condom effectiveness and the risk of pregnancy while wearing one

Condoms are one of the most effective and accessible forms of contraception, but no method is completely 100% effective in preventing pregnancy.

When used correctly and consistently every time you have sex, male condoms have a 98% success rate in preventing pregnancy. This means that 2 out of 100 couples who use condoms correctly every time they have sex may become pregnant in a year.

Factors affecting condom effectiveness

Several factors influence the effectiveness of condoms in preventing pregnancy, including:

Condom breakage

Various factors can cause damage to condoms, such as improper storage, the use of oil-based lubricants that can harm latex condoms, or damage caused by opening the package (for example, with teeth).

Condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place and used with water-based or silicone-based lubricants. You should also exercise caution when opening condom packaging, avoiding biting it and using scissors or other tools with care.

Improper fitting

The condom should be fitted on the correct side, facing out, with no air bubbles at the end. To accommodate sperm, simply leave a space at the end of the condom.

Condoms should also be used before any genital contact because pre-ejaculatory fluid can contain sperm.

Expired condoms

Condoms that have expired are easily damaged and no longer provide adequate protection. Always double-check the expiration date of condoms and avoid using condoms that have passed their validity period.

How can condoms provide better protection?

To get better protection and increase the effectiveness of condoms, you must use them correctly and consistently with each sexual encounter. In addition, you may need to use other contraceptive methods, such as spermicides, which kill sperm, or emergency birth control pills, which can help prevent pregnancy if a condom breaks or slips off in the middle of sex. If you are thinking about using other contraceptives and are unsure which one is best for you, talk to your doctor or gynecologist.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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