Mechanism of action

A male condom is a covering made to fit over a man's erect penis. It can also be called a rubber, sheath or skin, and is known by many different brand names. It works by providing a barrier between partners during sexual intercourse, so that bodily fluids, such as semen and blood, are not shared. As a result, pregnancy and reproductive tract infections (RTIs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), can be prevented. Most condoms are made of thin latex rubber. Some condoms are coated with a dry lubricant or with spermicide. Different sizes, shapes, colours and textures are common.