Some condoms don't contain any type of lubrication. Others that do can have water-based lubrication, silicone substances, or spermicides (Nonoxynol 9). More and more condoms carry spermicides now because of the added protection in the case of a break or leak. Condoms that carry spermicides are 99.9 % more effective in reducing the risk of STD transmission or pregnancy. (Siecus.org, 2002).
Despite popular belief, condoms are only effective if used consistently and correctly. This means that one must use the condom during every single act of intercourse from start to finish. This includes penile-vaginal, oral, and anal intercourse. Some people make the mistake of mishandling condoms before using them without knowing that they damaged it. Care is very important in the storage and opening of the packages. If latex condoms are stored in a hot dry place, they have the tendency to become brittle. Also, rough handling, which includes keeping them in wallets or glove compartments, dramatic changes in temperature and age contributes to the damage or discoloration of condoms. Whether or not the condoms have special additives such as spermicides, flavoring or shaping, they are all susceptible to spoil. Contributing to the misuse of condoms and leading to STD's and pregnancy is carelessness when opening the package. Condoms should be opened following the directions on the package, not with the teeth or sharp fingernails. This negates the purpose of having a condom because there could be an invisible tear. .
Condoms are probably the most effective contraceptive that protects against HIV on the market next to plain abstinence. "In a 1987-1991 study of couples in which one partner had HIV, all 123 couples who used condoms every time for four years prevented transmission of HIV. In 122 couples who did not use condoms every time, 12 partners became infected." (The Journal of the American Medical Association, 1995) .
