If you are wondering how effective are condoms, read on:

• There are lot of information stating to be protected in sex, you need to use condoms. But how effective are condoms from other contraceptives? Basically, with the rise of sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs) lately, using a condom will protect you--if and only if--it is used correctly. The best part to put the condom is when the man's penis is fully erect. You can just simply put the condom in and slide through the shaft. After sex, you can remove the condom by starting at the lowest part of the shaft, moving upwards. Be careful not to spill its contents. Male condoms are affordable and can be purchased at drugstores.
• On the other hand, there is also a female condom. The female condom is just like the male condom, only the difference is, the ring of the condom is inserted in the vagina. Although the female condom is no less than popular to its male variety, you can still avail the female condom is some drugstores and from your doctor.
• In terms of being effective, condoms can offer protection against sex diseases and pregnancy, but you need to take note that although condoms are a widely-preferred contraceptive, you need to realize that condoms offer 85% protection when it comes to birth control. It is advised to use a condom along with another contraceptive. You can use the condom to protect you from sex diseases and at the same time be on the pill. There's a misconception when it comes to using contraceptives that people tend to think once they are using one, it will protect them from getting pregnant. You need to put in mind that all contraceptives offer a % failure rate. 
• If you plan to use the pill together with a condom, you need to take value of your calendar and remember the dates when you need to take the pill. Some women forget the dates and that puts the pill to no use. On the other hand, if you plan to use the sponge, you will have to insert it first into the vagina to make it work. The sponge is a foam with spermicides that help kill the sperm; if your condom fails to work, then at least you still get some back-up from the sponge. If you don't have the pill or sponge, you can take the morning after pill which can be purchased from drugstores.