As one of the most effective and oldest methods of contraception, condoms have been effective for many individuals in protecting them against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In December 2018, the Ministry of Health has strongly advised many individuals that the use of condoms is important in reducing risks of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV infection. The Ministry has also advised the public to use condoms correctly and consistently to protect themselves during their sexual activities.
Condoms provide an effective barrier against STD pathogens, but it is important to know that condoms do not protect you from all STIs as they can be spread from skin-to-skin contact. This is why going for regular screenings is crucial to stay on top of your sexual health.
Here’s what you need to know about STD prevention with condoms.
Understanding the effectiveness of condoms
Condoms are a protective shield that blocks against any STDs that transmit via bodily fluids. This includes vaginal fluids, blood and semen. The use of either a female or male condom can greatly reduce the spread of the infection from one individual to another.
Condoms are effective in STD prevention that spread from the male urethral orifice, including gonorrhoea, HIV, chlamydia, hepatitis B, and trichomoniasis. Condoms can also aid in preventing STDs such as syphilis, herpes, and the human papillomavirus, which are capable of transmitting through skin contact or mucosal membrane.
However, while condoms may be effective in preventing the spread of STDs mentioned above, they do not completely rule out the risk of an individual in receiving STDs.
Contractable STDs that are not protected by condoms
Some STDs may still be transmitted even when individuals are using condoms. As such, when an individual’s infected skin that is not fully covered by a condom comes in close contact with their partner’s, there is a chance of transmission with the bacteria or the virus. This is because the contacted part of the skin becomes an entryway for microorganisms to enter or exit.
Condoms are typically less protective against many recent infections even after individuals have used them. Here are a few STDs that cannot be protected by condoms.
1. Genital herpes
Genital herpes is an infection that is sexually transmitted and cannot be fully protected by condoms. The cause of genital herpes is herpes simplex virus type 2. One can get infected through saliva or genital secretions. The virus can also be released from areas of the skin that do not have any visible herpes sore.
Genital herpes results from sores or lesions on an individual’s anus, upper thighs and genitals. Using condoms can lower the risk but because not all herpes sores occur in areas that can be covered by condoms, the infected individual may spread the virus to their sexual partner.
2. Syphilis
Syphilis is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily spreads through sexual contacts, such as anal and oral sex. Starting off as a painless sore on the genitals, mouth or rectum, the infection is followed up by a skin rash. Sometimes, sores occur in areas not covered by a condom.
The symptoms of primary and secondary syphilis can be mild, which is why a syphilis infection may often go unnoticed. Without a doctor’s diagnosis and treatment, the risk of bacteria spread from skin contact is high.
3. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
HPV infection is a common STD with over 100 different virus strains. While certain strains may not have any symptoms, others can be the cause of genital warts. Genital warts are present on genitals that are not fully covered by a condom, thus the viral transmission is highly likely to occur from skin-to-skin contact.
In addition, HPV can also be asymptomatic for men, making it easy to pass the virus unknowingly to their partner from sexual activity.
Prevent STDs properly with condoms
There are also other STDs that are not protected by condoms, such as pubic lice and chancroid. The most important part about condoms is achieving maximum protection when using it. This can significantly help you to protect against STDs, as any inconsistent or incorrect use of a condom can raise the risk of transmission with an infected partner. A few ways to ensure your condom is working right and effective is to check that there are no holes, tears, slippage, leakage or breakage.
It is also essential to go for regular check-ups so that and your partner can stay safe and treatment can be implemented with early detection. If you require HIV testing, health checks, and other health services, visit an STD clinic in Singapore.
Book an appointment with us at Elyon Clinic, or call us at 6802 7208.
