It has been taught for years that practising safe sex by using condoms is among the top most effective contraceptive methods. When used correctly, condoms are able to reduce significantly the risk of contracting most sexually transmitted infections or diseases. In fact, its effectiveness, in terms of percentage, can go as high as 98%.
However, recent studies have suggested that the numbers might not be as high as we have been told, especially in regard to certain infections or diseases.
Why do condoms sometimes fail?
Every STI or STD can be transmitted in two ways – through skin-to-skin contact or the transmission of bodily fluids; hence, why condoms work best in preventing STIs or STDs that can be transmitted through bodily fluids, such as HPV, hepatitis B, trichomoniasis, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and HIV.
Studies have shown that even if the guy puts on a condom incorrectly, there still is a high level of protection against STIs and STDs.
With that being said, there is never a 100% effective contraceptive method unless you avoid sex totally. While condoms are able to prevent STIs or STDs that are transmitted through bodily fluids, they cannot cover the entire genital. As such, the risk of transmitting through skin-to-skin contact is rather high. And the scary thing is that while some infections or diseases cause skin sores or lesions, there are some that are 100% asymptomatic, making them silent issues until it is too late.
What diseases or infections are condoms ineffective against?
Studies have shown that condoms are rather ineffective against STIs and STDs, such as trichomoniasis, syphilis, molluscum contagious, and herpes simplex virus (HSV), with the first two being tricky ones as they are highly transmittable through skin-to-skin contact and bodily fluids.
HSV is both highly transmittable and asymptomatic, which makes it one of the most contagious STDs globally. According to the World Health Organisation, it is estimated that 3.7 billion and 491 million individuals below the age of 50 have HSV type 1 infection (oral herpes) and HSV type 2 infection (genital herpes), respectively.
In addition, and quite surprisingly, studies suggested that condoms’ effectiveness against chlamydia and gonorrhoea is lower than we have previously been told. That is because the bacteria that causes the two diseases can be found in other areas apart from the genitals, such as the eyes, rectum, and throat. Hence, the exchange of bodily fluids and skin-to-skin contact can occur in other manners.
How, then, do we further protect ourselves?
We are definitely not throwing shade at the use of condoms. Neither are we advising people not to use condoms. They are still as effective in reducing the risk of contracting unwanted diseases and infections. As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Combining the practising of safe sex together with regular STD testing can reduce that risk significantly.
In regards to boosting the effectiveness of condoms, there are a couple of steps you can take.
For starters, choose the right condom size and type. A loose condom increases the risk of it slipping off during sexual intercourse. Vice versa, too tight a fit, and it runs the risk of it tearing during sex. However, these two situations are a rarity, and most guys will do fine with a standard-sized one. However, ensuring that you can get the right fit can prevent any further headaches.
Proper storage and duration of storage are vital as well. Always keep them in a dry, cool environment. Storing it in your wallet is not highly recommended, as it can get heated due to constant use. A condom is best used within three to five years. After this, the material starts to deteriorate, offering less effective protection.
Being aware of your STD status is as crucial as using condoms correctly. You cannot assume that you will be negative, even if you are married or in a committed monogamous relationship, and yes, even if both of you are a virgin. STDs and STIs can be transmitted even without ever having sexual intercourse. Hence, going for annual STD tests is the most responsible thing to do. As STD numbers continue to rise globally, you have to protect yourself and your loved ones.
If they are not open to the idea of STD testing, rather than avoiding it completely, sit down with them and discuss the topic thoroughly. Understanding their insecurities and fears provides an opportunity to bond together, allowing both of you to build trust and empathy.
Conclusion
Visiting a men’s health clinic in Singapore, such as Elyon Clinic, can help you and your partner understand everything you need to know about sexual health. At Elyon Clinic, we assure confidentiality. In addition, you will get prevention and screening tips that will not disrupt your current lifestyle. For more information on our various services, you may find them at https://elyonclinic.com.sg/.
