What types of condoms are available to prevent HIV transmission?
Two types of condoms are available to prevent the sexual transmission of HIV and other STIs:
- The male condom, also known as the external condom, is a sheath made from polyurethane, latex, or polyisoprene materials that covers the penis during sexual intercourse. There are many types and brands of male condoms available. They vary in shape, colour, size, texture and flavour.
- The female condom, also known as the internal or insertive condom, is a pouch made of polyurethane or a synthetic latex material called nitrile. The pouch is open at one end and closed at the other end. It has a flexible ring at both ends. The ring at the closed end is used to insert the condom into the vagina and hold it in place. The ring at the open end of the pouch remains outside of the vagina and covers the external parts of the female genitalia. There are only two types of female condoms available. The difference is in the material used. The FC1 condom is made of polyurethane material, which is latex free, and a cheaper version, called the FC2, is made of nitrile.
So it’s very important to use condom as tool to protect you. Condom still is the best and easy way to choose.