Condoms are a type of barrier contraception that physically blocks sperm, semen, and other genital lesions from making contact with one’s partner. Condoms serve two main purposes. They can prevent pregnancy, although not as reliably as other birth control options (condoms are 85% effective with typical use as compared with >95% with other forms), and more importantly, protect against STDs including HIV, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Trichomonas, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, and even HPV.