Subject: Condoms (11/8/01)
Q: Actually, from
what I understand, those goat skin condoms aren't that effective at birth
control either. They aren't a good idea all around. In fact, why DO
people use them? To avoid the mess?
A: You are right that some
of the animal skin condoms are not even very effective as birth control. Depending on the animal used, their
effectiveness will vary, but none are as effective as latex or polyurethane
condoms. I guess people use them
because they either mistakenly believe they are effective or at least want some
minimal protection. Also, from what I
understand, they do not decrease sensitivity as much as latex or polyurethane
condoms do, but since they are not as effective, it doesn’t seem like a very
good trade-off to me. However, when
used in ADDITION to another form of birth control (i.e. diaphragm, IUD, sponge,
etc.), animal skin condoms are very effective as birth control. You must remember, though, those other forms
of birth control do nothing to prevent transmission of STDs, including
HIV. Although I must add, I have never
heard of a condom made from a goat, although stranger things have happened…