Patient Counseling for the Male Non-Latex Condom:
Intended Benefit: Using the male non-latex condom during intercourse provides a mechanical barrier method for protection against pregnancy and sexually-transmitted infections.
Condom Use / Timing: Condom must be applied over the man’s erect penis prior to intercourse or sexual contact. After ejaculation, penis should be withdrawn and condom should be removed while the penis is still erect. A new (unrolled) condom must be used for each separate act of intercourse.
Potential Side Effects: Possible side effects include irritation, inflammation (redness, itching and burning), decreased sensation or loss of erection. Both water and oil-based lubricants can be used with non-latex condoms.
Warnings/Contraindications: Do not use polyurethane condoms if either sexual partner is allergic to polyurethane. They are also contraindicated for concomitant use with female condom. Lambskin condoms are contraindicated in patients with lanolin sensitivity.
Other: Proper use and compliance is very important. Failure rates can range from as low as 2% when used correctly and consistently, to as high as 15% with typical use.3
Storage: Condoms should be kept in a cool, dry place and handled gently. They should not be exposed to heat, light, air or sunlight for long periods of time. It is not recommended to store them in a glove compartment or carried in a wallet or back pocket (unless used on the same day). The friction caused from walking or by opening and closing a wallet may cause tiny holes to develop in the condom.
If the condom appears discolored, brittle or sticky, it may be past its expiration date and it will be more likely to break.
References
1. Black A, Francoeur D, Rowe T et al. SOGC clinical practice guidelines: Canadian contraception consensus. J Obstet Gynaecol Can 2004; 26: 219-96.
2. Canadian Pharmacists Association. Patient Self Care 2nd Edition. Chapter 83: Contraception; 799, and Canadian Pharmacists Association. Therapeutic Choices 6th Edition. Chapter 68: Contraception; 904-906.
Intended Benefit: Using the male non-latex condom during intercourse provides a mechanical barrier method for protection against pregnancy and sexually-transmitted infections.
Condom Use / Timing: Condom must be applied over the man’s erect penis prior to intercourse or sexual contact. After ejaculation, penis should be withdrawn and condom should be removed while the penis is still erect. A new (unrolled) condom must be used for each separate act of intercourse.
Potential Side Effects: Possible side effects include irritation, inflammation (redness, itching and burning), decreased sensation or loss of erection. Both water and oil-based lubricants can be used with non-latex condoms.
Warnings/Contraindications: Do not use polyurethane condoms if either sexual partner is allergic to polyurethane. They are also contraindicated for concomitant use with female condom. Lambskin condoms are contraindicated in patients with lanolin sensitivity.
Other: Proper use and compliance is very important. Failure rates can range from as low as 2% when used correctly and consistently, to as high as 15% with typical use.3
Storage: Condoms should be kept in a cool, dry place and handled gently. They should not be exposed to heat, light, air or sunlight for long periods of time. It is not recommended to store them in a glove compartment or carried in a wallet or back pocket (unless used on the same day). The friction caused from walking or by opening and closing a wallet may cause tiny holes to develop in the condom.
If the condom appears discolored, brittle or sticky, it may be past its expiration date and it will be more likely to break.
References
1. Black A, Francoeur D, Rowe T et al. SOGC clinical practice guidelines: Canadian contraception consensus. J Obstet Gynaecol Can 2004; 26: 219-96.
2. Canadian Pharmacists Association. Patient Self Care 2nd Edition. Chapter 83: Contraception; 799, and Canadian Pharmacists Association. Therapeutic Choices 6th Edition. Chapter 68: Contraception; 904-906.