Breakage and acceptability of a polyurethane condom: a randomized, controlled study.
BACKGROUND
Although the first commercial polyurethane condom was approved for use several years ago, no U.S. clinical trial has compared its performance to that of the latex condom.


METHODS
In a masked crossover study, 360 couples were randomized to use three polyurethane condoms and three latex condoms. After each use, couples recorded condom breaks, condom slips and other aspects of performance. At completion of the study, couples compared the sensitivity, ease of use, fit and lubrication of the two types of condoms.


RESULTS
The clinical breakage rate of the polyurethane condom was 7.2%, compared with 1.1% for the latex condom (relative risk of 6.6, 95% confidence interval of 3.5-12.3). The complete slippage rate (combining incidents during intercourse and withdrawal) of the polyurethane condom was 3.6%, compared with 0.6% for the latex condom (relative risk of 6.0, 95% confidence interval of 2.6-14.2). Most male users preferred the sensitivity provided by the polyurethane condom to that of the latex condom.


CONCLUSIONS
The clinical breakage rate of the polyurethane condom is significantly higher than that of the latex condom. However, nearly half of the users preferred the polyurethane condom, which provides an option for couples who have rejected conventional condoms or who cannot use latex products.
Frezieres
R G
RG
California Family Health Council, Los Angeles, USA.
Walsh
T L
TL
Nelson
A L
AL
Clark
V A
VA
Coulson
A H
AH
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D017280:Condoms / Q000592:standards* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D004868:Equipment Failure / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007840:Latex; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D011140:Polyurethanes; D012307:Risk Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States
D007840:Latex; D011140:Polyurethanes