Because a couple must interrupt foreplay to put the condom on, intercourse is less spon­taneous. In addition, some people feel a reduced sensation or develop a slight allergic re­action to a specific type of condom or lubricant. Some condoms are available only in a single size, whereas others come in a variety of sizes and […]

  ondoms can be made out of latex, polyurethane, or lambskin. Latex condoms should always be used with a water-based lubricant. Following are products that should be used with condoms and products that should be avoided when using latex condoms. All types of lubricants, in­cluding oil-based lubricants, can be safely used with polyurethane condoms. FOR […]

ver the years, public health experts have recom­mended using condoms containing the spermicide nonoxynol-9 (N-9) to decrease the possibility of preg­nancy. Although N-9 is an effective spermicide, several studies have raised red flags about its effectiveness and safety when it comes to protection from sexually transmit­ted infections. Research has found that spermicides con­taining nonoxynol-9 do […]

The male condom (“rubber” or “prophylactic”) is placed on an erect penis prior to vagi­nal penetration. Condoms must be put on before there is any vaginal contact by the pe­nis because sperm may be present in the urethra. After being rolled onto the penis, a half-inch empty space is left at the tip of the […]

As we discussed earlier, no single method of birth control is best for everyone—the best one for you is one that you and your partner will use correctly every time you have sex­ual intercourse. Choosing a contraceptive method is an important decision and one that must be made with your lifestyle in mind. Important issues […]

Several methods of contraception, or birth control, are currently available. Prior to the avail­ability of any contraceptive method, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) must formally approve the method. Let’s explore the FDA approval process and in­dividual lifestyle issues that may affect contraceptive method choice. FDA Approval Process The FDA is responsible for […]

n many places around the world, herbs are used as contraception. For example, American women in Appalachia drink tea made from Queen Anne’s lace di­rectly following sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy (Rensberger, 1994). They are not alone. Many women from South Africa, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Haiti, China, and India rely on herbal contraceptives (L. Newman […]

Although many people believe that contraception is a modern invention, its origins ac­tually extend back to ancient times. We will now explore contraception throughout his­tory, both within the United States and cross-culturally. Contraception in Ancient Times People have always tried to invent ways to control fertility. The ancient Greeks used magic, superstition, herbs, and drugs […]

Sexuality** Now Contraception: History and Method Considerations Contraception in Ancient Times Contraception in the United States: 1800s and Early 1900s Contraception Outside the United States ■ HUMAN SEXUALITY IN A DIVERSE WORLD Herbal Lore and Contraception Choosing a Method of Contraception Barrier Methods: Condoms and Caps Condoms ■ SEX IN REAL LIFE Nonoxynol-9: Harmful or […]