Most of us are aware that a condom is a must during intercourse to prevent against HIV/AIDS, various other sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies. However, the condom has been at the center of controversy and gossip and the information below will hopefully clear the air and put the record straight.

Two condoms safer? No way!
Plenty of people think that using two condoms is safer. Utter nonsense! In fact, this is a bad idea. The friction of one condom rubbing against another could cause both to rupture, leaving you completely defenseless. Latex condoms in particular are not designed to rub against one another. Save yourself the trouble and the money and stick to one at a time.

Condoms are useful
Some people also believe that condoms are ineffectual which is completely untrue. When properly used, a condom can greatly reduce the risk of HIV transmission. The important thing is that you know how to use a condom properly and that you use a new condom every time that you have sex. In fact, in terms of contraception, condoms are 97 percent effective in ‘perfect use’ and 86 percent effective with typical use. Perfect use is not hard to accomplish; it consists mainly of just putting on the condom correctly. The most important thing that you can do is to use a new condom every single time that you have sex.

Condoms don’t have holes
There is a notion that condoms have holes that HIV can pass through. This is not at all true as long as you use a latex or polyurethane condom. Semen and vaginal fluids, which can contain HIV, cannot get through a latex or polyurethane condom. In fact viruses that are smaller than HIV cannot pass through condoms either. When condoms are manufactured (on a mould) they are dipped into the latex, dried, and then dipped in again to ensure that any pores large enough for a virus to pass through are sealed.

Condoms don’t interfere with pleasure
Men generally feel that condoms come in the way of pleasure. Today, thanks to Technology, condoms are tailor-made for sensual pleasure while providing maximum security. There are different types of condoms designed for you and your partner to indulge in.

Condoms a must  
The rumor mills have been doing the rounds on this one for quite a while. Condoms don't have to be used when the female is on birth control. A distortion of facts. Birth control medication prevents pregnancy. That's it! It can't prevent the transmission of HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.

So, remember the truth about condoms and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Learn to use the condom correctly. Click to get your checklist.