Assessment of condom use in men and women

Annu Rev Sex Res. 2005:16:20-52.

Abstract

Self-reported condom use is a key variable in surveys of sexual behavior and in studies evaluating interventions to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections. This article provides a review of how male condom use has been assessed in research. We critically review a number of methodological issues, including the length of the recall period, terminology, specification of partner variables, validity and reliability of condom use, and use of newer data collection methods such as daily diaries and computer-assisted and online technologies. Assessment of condom use errors and problems, and the role of women in condom use are discussed. Finally, we offer recommendations for improving assessment of condom use in future research.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arousal*
  • Coitus*
  • Condoms / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Personal Satisfaction*
  • Research Design
  • Sex Education
  • Sexual Partners*
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / transmission
  • Social Conditions