Condom Basics
What is the main purpose of a condom?
Condoms prevent pregnancy and protect against STI's.
What does spermicide do?
Condoms are 100% effective at preventing pregnancy.
FALSE
No contraceptive method, except abstinence, is 100% effective. According to the Cleveland Clinic, condoms are about 98% effective with the perfect use.
How long can sperm live in the female reproductive tract?
Sperm can live up to 5 days in the female reproductive tract
What is one of the main reasons as to why condoms may still fail to prevent STI transmission, even if they don't break?
STI's can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact in areas not covered by the condom.
What material are most condoms made of?
Latex
Nonoxynol-9
Spermicide can be used alone to prevent pregnancy.
TRUE
Although this is true, it is not recommended. Spermicide alone is about 70% effective in preventing pregnancy according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Which method alone is more effective at preventing pregnancy - condoms or spermicides?
Condoms
A couple reports using both a male and female condom at the same time for "double protection". As a nurse, what do you respond with and why?
You would advise against this.
Friction between both a male and female condom can cause tearing, breaking or slipping. Use only one condom (male or female) to prevent this.
Name a type of condom for someone with a latex allergy
Polyurethane or Polyisoprene condoms
Why can frequent use of spermicide increase the risk of HIV/STI transmission
The spermicide Nonoxynolâ9 does not prevent women becoming infected with sexually transmitted infections, and when used very frequently has been shown to cause open genital sores.
You can use oil-based lubricants with latex condoms.
FALSE
Oil-based products break down latex and increase the risk for weakening the material and a chance for tears. It is recommended to use water or silicone-based lubricants.
What is the shelf-life of an unopened condom?
Up to 3-5 years.