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Risks

By Mayo Clinic staff

Condoms are generally safe and effective. However, there are a few things you should consider:

  • Condoms can trigger a latex allergy. Reactions to latex can include rash, hives, runny nose and in severe cases, tightening of the airways and loss of blood pressure. If you or your partner is allergic to latex, a polyurethane or lambskin condom may be an alternative.
  • Condoms aren't foolproof. There's still a risk of getting an STD or becoming pregnant when using a condom, especially if it breaks or comes off during sex.
How you prepare Why it's done
References
  1. Stone KM, et al. Male condoms. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 25, 2011.
  2. Levine JP, et al. Nonhormonal contraceptives. In: Rakel RE. Textbook of Family Medicine. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/books/page.do?eid=4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-2467-5..50039-7--cesec41&isbn=978-1-4160-2467-5&type=bookPage&sectionEid=4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-2467-5..50039-7--cesec42&uniqId=234322173-3#4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-2467-5..50039-7--cesec42. Accessed Jan. 25, 2011.
  3. Instructions for male condoms. American Social Health Association. http://www.ashastd.org/condom/condom_male_nopics.cfm. Accessed Jan. 25, 2011.
MY00654 April 28, 2011

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