Add your comments to the bottom of this page. Condoms, like other barrier methods, protect against pregnancy and infection by physically blocking sperm from reaching an egg. Some brands are coated with spermicide, a chemical agent that kills sperm. Male condoms cover the erect penis.
Female condoms cover the opening to the cervix and line the vaginal wall.
Latex condoms offer more protection than the lambskin variety. Female condoms are not as reliable, with a success rate that ranges from 79 to 95 percent. Pluses Many couples rely on this method after having a baby because condoms don't interfere with lactation or a woman's hormones, and don't require a physical exam or fitting. Most supermarkets and drugstores sell condoms, and they are fairly inexpensive. Some family planning centers even give them away free.