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Published 17:00 23 Nov 2014 GMT
Updated 07:32 18 Dec 2014 GMT

How effective is it?
If used correctly, the female condom will help to prevent against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. The female condom is 95% effective. There is currently only one brand of female condom available in Ireland – Femidom.
What are the advantages?
The main advantage of the female condom is that it helps to protect against pregnancy and STIs and HIV. Using the female condom means that you only need to think about contraception when you are having sex. Most of the time, there are no medical side effects to using the condom.
What are the disadvantages?
Some people find that using condoms can interrupt sex, but the female condom can be inserted up to eight hours before sex. There is a risk that the condom may split or tear if not used properly.
Another disadvantage is that female condoms are not readily available and can often be quite expensive.
Who can use the female condom?
Most women can use the female condom.
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The Male Condom
What is it?
A male condom is a barrier form of contraception that is worn by a man during sex. It is a thin sheath that is rolled down over a man’s penis before sex. The male condom is the most common form of contraception.
How does it work?
The condom prevents sperm from entering into a woman’s vagina during sex.
How effective is it?
If used in the correct way, condoms are 97% effective and not only do they prevent against pregnancy but they also protect against STIs.
What are the advantages?
Condoms are available on sale without prescription in a variety of different outlets around the country. Both men and women can purchase condoms, allowing both genderes to be in control of their contraception. Condoms are also used to prevent against STIs and there are usually no medical side effects.
Condoms are also available in a variety of sizes and varieties.
What are the disadvantages?
Some people have difficulty putting a condom on correctly and condoms can therefore get damaged or torn.
More importantly, people need to be aware that condoms have an expiry date and must be used before this date.
Some men may experience a lack of sensitivity.
Who can use it?
Most men and women can use condoms as a form of contraception.

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