How statistically reliable are condoms?
Condoms make sex safer, but only abstaining from sex completely is 100% safe. That said, when used correctly and consistently, latex condoms provide an extremely effective form of contraception and protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Clinical trials have shown that correct and consistent use of condoms can have between 95% and 98% contraceptive method efficacy rate. The failure rates are measured per 100 years of exposure per woman, so you can see that the method is very effective. Condom effectiveness rates are best for strongly motivated couples, older experienced couples, married couples all of whom have used the method for some time to avoid pregnancy. This points to the keys to reliable condom use: choose a high quality condom which fits the male well (choose the correct size) use a lubricant, handle the condom carefully with clean hands, put it on before any form of genital contact, and withdraw the penis and condom tgether, soon after ejaculation. Any male who has
