The male condom is a thin piece of latex or polyurethane that is worn over the penis during oral, anal or vaginal intercourse to prevent pre-ejaculatory (pre-cum) fluid or semen from entering a partner’s mouth, anus, or vagina. Condoms can be made of latex, polyurethane and natural skin. Only latex and polyurethane condoms prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

When used correctly, every single time, condoms prevent pregnancy about 98 percent of the time. The typical effectiveness rate—where mistakes are made or condoms break—is about 85 percent. A condom needs to be used correctly, each and every time, for it to prevent pregnancy and the spread of STDs. Condoms generally have no side effects, unless someone is allergic to latex, spermicide or the lubricant. (If you are allergic, you can buy polyurethane condoms sold under the brand names Durex Avanti or Trojan Supra).

Condoms protect against STDs that are spread through bodily fluids (pre-cum, semen, vaginal fluids and blood). Those include HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis. Some STDs, like herpes and genital warts, are spread through skin-to-skin contact. A condom may not cover areas of the skin that are infected, such as the scrotum, labia or even the inside of the thigh. So, condoms may not protect against these specific infections.

Some condoms are called “novelty” condoms, meaning they’re just for fun and probably don’t protect against STDs. Be sure to read the package carefully so you know what kind of condom you’re using, and if it meets the needs that you have.

Condoms come in different colors, flavors and textures. Some are lubricated to reduce friction and the chance of breakage. Others have the spermicide known as Nonoxynol-9, which does double duty. It kills sperm and lubricates. (Condoms lubricated with Nonoxynol-9 can be irritating. If you experience burning or itching, stop using them. Also, it is best to NOT use a condom lubricated with Nonoxynol-9 during anal intercourse).

Flavored condoms are supposed to be used only during oral sex. Don’t use them for vaginal or anal intercourse because the flavoring might irritate the vagina or anus.

Anybody, no matter their age, can buy condoms in most drug, grocery or convenience stores. Condoms usually cost about a dollar each, but many family planning clinics, (like Planned Parenthood), give condoms out for free or at a discounted price. You can also buy condoms through some Web sites.

Make sure you know the steps to using a condom properly.