Condoms have been around for centuries and have been made from materials such as paper, animal skins and rubber. Condoms have helped men and women take sexual responsibility by lowering their risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or becoming pregnant. When used correctly and consistently, condoms continue to be the best protection against HIV and STIs. Read on to find out more about them:

What are condoms?
A condom is a sheath-like covering, usually made of a thin but strong latex rubber that fits over an erect penis. You have many choices when it comes to condoms. Some are lubricated with spermicide, plain lube or flavored lube and they're also available non-lubed. The options continue with a variety of specialty condoms: different shapes, colors, sizes and flavors. Just be sure the condom you choose says it prevents STIs and pregnancy.

Some condoms are made of animal skin, often called lambskin condoms. These "natural condoms" are not as effective as latex condoms in preventing STIs because the pores in the animal skin are large enough to allow some bacteria or viruses to pass through the condom.