How Does a Condom Work?

Condoms are one of the most widely used contraceptives to prevent pregnancy as well as the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). But have you ever wondered how does a condom work? Whether you’re new to using condoms or are simply curious about their effectiveness, understanding how they function is key to ensuring both safety and comfort. Keep reading to learn more about how condoms work and the different types of condoms.

What Are Condoms?

Condoms are devices used during sex to prevent pregnancy as well as the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from one partner to the other. Condoms are what’s known as a “sexual barrier,” meaning they create a physical barrier that blocks fluids from passing from one partner to another. They can be made from a range of materials, including latex, polyurethane, polyisoprene, and even sheep or lambskin.

How Do Condoms Work?

How does a condom work? While there are many different kinds, condoms all work the same way. To start, let’s discuss how condoms are made. Condoms are made out of a thin, non-porous material, such as latex, that prevents fluids or bacteria from passing through while still allowing for plenty of sensation. When worn correctly over the penis or inserted into the vagina or anus, they can block the transfer of semen, vaginal discharge, saliva, or bacteria that may cause common STIs. For males and those with penises, condoms collect semen after ejaculation, preventing sperm from entering the vagina, where it could fertilize an egg and cause pregnancy. For females, internal condoms create a barrier to prevent sperm from reaching the uterus. Let’s dive deeper into the different types of condoms below.

Different Types of Condoms

Depending on a person’s genitals and the type of sexual act they’d like to perform, there are different types of condoms to explore. Read on to learn about different types of condoms and how each condom works. 

External Condoms

When most people think of condoms, they think of external condoms. External condoms go on the outside of a penis. These condoms contain a reservoir for capturing semen and stop it from entering a vagina, anus, or anywhere else. In doing so, they prevent accidental pregnancy and the transmission of STIs. 

It’s important to know how to put on a condom for effective use. In order to put on an external condom, it’s important to pinch the tip of the condom and roll the length all the way down the shaft of the penis. This allows for enough room at the tip to catch the ejaculated semen. 

External condoms are considered 98% effective when used correctly. It’s also crucial to avoid breakage. Why do condoms break? Often, incorrect condom use can make condoms break or fluid leak out accidentally, as well as using condoms past their expiration date, or those left out in the sun or hot conditions. 

Internal Condoms

Whereas external condoms go on the outside of a penis, internal condoms go on the inside of a vagina or anus. These condoms work much like an external condom. They have the appearance of a little bag: opened at one end and sealed at the other. They prevent sperm from entering the cervix or the rectum, as well as block the transfer of potentially harmful bacteria. 

Dental Dams

Dental dams are a type of condom specifically used for oral sex. While internal and external condoms are bag-shaped, a dental dam is simply a large rectangle constructed from non-porous materials, such as latex. When performing oral sex, they can be placed over one partner’s genitals. Dental dams work by preventing the transfer of vaginal fluids, saliva, blood, or bacteria from one partner’s genitals to the other’s mouth and vice versa. 

Finger Condoms

Finger condoms are like external condoms but shrunken down to fit over a finger. Finger condoms can be used to cover the fingers for any type of sexual touching. Just like other condoms, finger condoms work by preventing the transfer of fluids, bacteria, and more. 

Conclusion

To have safe sex, it’s always important to use a condom. Both external and internal condoms can help prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of spreading sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Depending on the type of sex you’re having, there is a range of different condoms you can use. For vaginal or anal sex, use an external or internal condom. For oral sex, use an external condom or dental dam. For sexual touching, use finger condoms. 

For the best selection of condoms, discover Durex. Our range of condoms includes latex and non-latex options with additional features to enhance pleasure. Shop ribbed and dotted condoms, extra-sensitive and air condoms, and more.