A condom is a device most commonly used during sexual intercourse as a form of contraception and HIV prevention. 

Condoms are available as male condoms and female condoms. 

Male condoms are put on a man's erect penis and physically block ejaculated semen from entering the body of a sexual partner. 

A female condom is a device that is used during sexual intercourse, worn internally and physically blocks ejaculated semen from entering that person's body.

Condoms are used to prevent pregnancy and the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs, such as gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV).

Female condoms have been available now for over 16 years.

How to use male condoms
Includes diagrams showing how to put on a condom.

How to use female condoms
Includes diagrams showing how to insert a female condom.
 
If you are using condoms remember:
They are damaged by oil-based lubricants

Advantages
STI protection
No drugs or clinic visits required 

Rainforest condoms
Most condoms are made from latex, but some are made from other materials.

Recently, the Brazilian government has begun producing condoms using rubber from trees in the Amazon. The new condoms will be known by the name Natex.

Benefits
As a method of contraception, condoms have the advantage of being:

• inexpensive
• easy to use 
• offering protection against sexually transmitted infections

Varieties
Male condoms are available in a variety of different sizes, colours, flavours and textures.

There are also new 'baggy condoms' that are more pleasureable to use, according to research.