Topic Overview Back to top What is a male condom? Condoms can
protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and
they can be used to prevent pregnancy. A male condom is placed
over a man's erect penis before sex. Condoms are also called
"rubbers," "sheaths," or "skins." Condoms are made of latex
(rubber), polyurethane, or sheep intestine. While latex and
polyurethane condoms help prevent the spread of sexually
transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV, sheep intestine
condoms do not. The male condom is a barrier method of birth
control. Condoms are currently the only male method of birth
control besides vasectomy. To more effectively prevent
pregnancy, use a condom with a more effective birth control
method such as hormonal contraception, an intrauterine device
(IUD), a diaphragm with spermicide, or another female barrier
method. How do you get male condoms? Condoms don't require a
prescription or a visit to a health professional. Condoms are
sold in drugstores, family planning clinics, and many o