While condoms are highly effective at preventing many sexually transmitted infections (STIs), some can still be transmitted even with correct condom use, primarily due to skin-to-skin contact with infected areas not covered by the condom.
STIs That Can Be Transmitted Despite Condom Use
Certain STIs are spread through contact with infected skin or sores that may exist on areas not covered by a condom (such as the scrotum, inner thighs, or perianal region). This means that even with a condom on, transmission can still occur if there's contact with these uncovered infected areas.
Herpes (Genital Herpes)
- Cause: Herpes simplex virus (HSV).
- Transmission: Herpes is spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with herpes sores, blisters, or sometimes even without visible symptoms (asymptomatic shedding). A condom provides a barrier only to the skin it covers, leaving other potentially infected areas exposed.
- Further Reading: Learn more about Genital Herpes from the CDC.
Genital Warts
- Cause: Human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Transmission: HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Genital warts, caused by certain types of HPV, can appear on various parts of the genital area, including the base of the penis, scrotum, anus, or inner thighs. These areas may not be covered by a condom, allowing for transmission.
- Further Reading: Find out more about Genital Warts and HPV from the CDC.
Syphilis
- Cause: Treponema pallidum bacteria.
- Transmission: Syphilis is transmitted through direct contact with a syphilitic sore, called a chancre. These chancres can appear on the external genitals, anus, mouth, or vagina. If a chancre is located in an area not covered by a condom, transmission can occur during sexual contact.
- Further Reading: Get information on Syphilis from the CDC.
Mpox (formerly Monkeypox)
- Cause: Mpox virus.
- Transmission: While not exclusively an STI, mpox can be transmitted during sexual contact through close, often skin-to-skin contact with mpox sores, scabs, or body fluids. Similar to other skin-to-skin contact STIs, condoms do not fully protect against all potential contact points if lesions are present on uncovered skin.
- Further Reading: Read more about Mpox from the WHO.
How Condoms Protect Against Other STIs
Condoms are highly effective at preventing the transmission of STIs that spread through bodily fluids (semen, vaginal fluids, blood) by creating a physical barrier. When used correctly and consistently, they significantly reduce the risk of contracting:
- Chlamydia: A common bacterial infection.
- Gonorrhoea: Another widespread bacterial infection.
- Trichomoniasis: A parasitic infection.
- HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus): The virus that causes AIDS.
- Hepatitis B: A viral infection affecting the liver.
Understanding Condom Effectiveness: A Quick Guide
| STI Type | Can Be Transmitted Despite Condom Use (Skin-to-Skin Contact) | Largely Prevented by Correct Condom Use (Fluid Exchange) |
|---|---|---|
| Viral | Herpes, Genital Warts (HPV), Mpox | HIV, Hepatitis B |
| Bacterial | Syphilis | Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea |
| Parasitic | — | Trichomoniasis |
Maximizing Your Protection
To minimize the risk of STI transmission, consider these strategies:
- Consistent and Correct Condom Use: Always use condoms as directed for every sexual act. Ensure they are unexpired and stored properly.
- Regular STI Testing: Get tested regularly, especially if you have new partners or multiple partners. Encourage your partners to do the same.
- Open Communication: Discuss STI status and prevention methods with your sexual partners.
- Vaccinations: Vaccinations are available for some STIs, such as HPV and Hepatitis B, offering significant protection.
- PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis): For individuals at high risk of HIV, daily medication like PrEP can significantly reduce the chance of getting HIV from sex.
- Limiting Partners: Reducing your number of sexual partners can lower your overall risk of exposure to STIs.
