What is it? It's a thin latex or plastic sheath placed over a man's erect penis during sex to trap sperm at the point of ejaculation. It must be put on the penis as soon as it becomes erect and before any contact takes place with the vagina. Men should withdraw as soon as they have ejaculated and take care not to spill any semen.

Condoms must be used with care as they can slip off or split. They should never be used with oil-based products such as petroleum jelly or suntan oil as these will damage the rubber.

Advantages: easily available; offers protection against sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS.

Considerations: can reduce spontaneity.

Available from? pharmacies, supermarkets, vending machines. Free from family planning clinics.

How effective? 94%-98% depending on correct use. Only use condoms with the BSI or CE kite mark on the packet.

Don't forget: only condoms protect against sexually transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS.

Female condom (Femidom)

What Is It? It's a thin polyurethane sheath placed inside the vagina (also covering the cervix and the area outside) to stop sperm from entering. It can be put in at any time before sex and is actually stronger than the male condom. You need to be sure that the penis enters the condom and is not inserted between the condom and the vaginal wall.

Advantages: offers protection against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS.

Considerations: can reduce spontaneity.

Available from? pharmacies and free from family planning clinics.

How effective? 95% if used correctly.