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External condom

External condom)

PROS/CONS

Pros

    Easy to take on and off.

      Doesn't affect your periods.

        Does not temporarily effect your fertility so you can stop using and try for a baby at any time.

          It doesn’t contain any hormones.

            It can be used when breastfeeding.

              Can reduce the risk of transmission of HIV/AIDs and other STIs.

                No hormonal side effects such as weight gain, mood swings and breast tenderness.

                  Easy to take on and off.

                  Doesn't affect your periods.

                  Does not temporarily effect your fertility so you can stop using and try for a baby at any time.

                  It doesn’t contain any hormones.

                  It can be used when breastfeeding.

                  Can reduce the risk of transmission of HIV/AIDs and other STIs.

                  No hormonal side effects such as weight gain, mood swings and breast tenderness.

                  Cons

                    It can tear or come off during sex if not used properly.

                      Not as effective as other types of contraception such as long-acting contraceptives.

                        Needs to be used every time you have sex.

                          Needs to be put on just before sex which can interrupt sex.

                            Needs to be administered by your partner.

                              Some men cannot maintain an erection when using a condom.

                                Some medications such as thrush treatment can make them less effective.

                                  Needs to be used every time you have sex.

                                    It can tear or come off during sex if not used properly.

                                    Not as effective as other types of contraception such as long-acting contraceptives.

                                    Needs to be used every time you have sex.

                                    Needs to be put on just before sex which can interrupt sex.

                                    Needs to be administered by your partner.

                                    Some men cannot maintain an erection when using a condom.

                                    Some medications such as thrush treatment can make them less effective.

                                    Needs to be used every time you have sex.

                                    The pros and cons listed are not exhaustive. Talk to your doctor or nurse for more information.

                                    SIDE EFFECTS

                                    External condom side effects

                                     

                                    In most cases, there are no medical side effects from using condoms, unless the user is allergic to latex rubber, spermicides, or plastic.

                                    There are no negative symptoms
                                    GP visit

                                    Talking to your doctor

                                    Get the information you need for an informed discussion with your doctor.

                                     

                                    Learn more

                                    PP-UN-WHC-GB-0083 September 2023

                                    Disclaimer

                                    The health information on this site has been reviewed and approved by Bayer by an appropriately qualified medical reviewer. It is intended as general information only. It is not intended to replace a consultation with a healthcare professional, to provide specific medical advice or replace the patient information leaflet provided with your medicine. Treatments discussed here should be initiated under medical supervision. For full information including side effects and eligibility for treatment, please consult your healthcare professional. Always speak to your doctor or nurse for personal medical advice.

                                     

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                                    Reporting side effects

                                    If you get any side effects whilst taking a medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the package leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the yellow card scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of medicines.