HPV, herpes, syphilis, and pubic lice can be transmitted through both bodily fluids and skin-to-skin contact, making condoms not a foolproof method for preventing these infections.
Most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are spread in two ways: skin-to-skin contact and through bodily fluids. Anyone who is sexually active is at risk of contracting these infections.
Condoms are the only contraceptive method that can help prevent some STIs. The American Federation for Family Planning estimates that most condoms are about 98% effective when used correctly, but in reality, the effectiveness drops to approximately 87%. Users of this protective method during sexual intercourse can still transmit or contract STIs.
Infections Transmitted Through Bodily Fluids
Standard condoms are effective in preventing sexually transmitted diseases spread through genital fluids such as semen, vaginal secretions, and blood during sexual activity. However, since they are not 100% effective and some infections can be transmitted in various ways, condoms realistically only reduce risk rather than provide complete protection.
Condoms for the penis are the most common type and can be made from latex, polyurethane, or polyisoprene. These materials can help prevent the spread of bodily fluids. In contrast, sheepskin condoms have small pores that allow infectious fluids to pass through during use.
Some infections transmitted through bodily fluids are difficult to fully prevent with condoms, including Chlamydia, gonorrhea, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human papillomavirus (HPV) (which can also be transmitted through skin contact), herpes simplex virus (HSV) (which can be transmitted through skin contact), hepatitis B and C, and Trichomoniasis.
Using condoms correctly during sexual intercourse reduces the risk of STI transmission. (Photo: Ngọc Phạm).
Infections Transmitted Through Skin Contact
Condoms are ineffective at preventing sexually transmitted diseases that are spread through skin-to-skin contact. Many STIs cause sores or skin irritations in areas not covered by the condom, such as:
- HPV has several strains that cause genital warts.
- HSV causes lesions in the mouth, anus, groin, or pelvic area but can also be transmitted through skin even without visible lesions.
- Molluscum contagiosum causes small, soft bumps on the skin.
- Pubic lice live and lay eggs in pubic hair.
- Syphilis causes round, firm sores known as chancres.
To reduce the risk of STIs, in addition to using condoms correctly, it’s important to limit the number of sexual partners, understand one’s own infection status, and communicate with partners.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that sexually active women under 25 years old should be screened for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, HPV, and hepatitis C. Individuals at higher risk, such as those with multiple partners, should get tested more frequently and consider testing for other STIs as well. Pregnant women should also be tested for STIs that could affect the fetus or be transmitted to the baby during childbirth.
Men, transgender individuals, or those who are gender diverse should also be screened for STIs based on their sexual activity, partners, and individual anatomy. However, there is currently no screening method available to detect HPV in men.
Most STIs are asymptomatic or have very mild symptoms. It can take days to weeks after infection for individuals to develop symptoms of gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis. With HIV, the onset of illness after exposure to the virus can be up to three months. Therefore, if you suspect you may be infected, discuss with a doctor and get tested early.
When test results are positive, individuals should stop having sexual intercourse immediately and follow the treatment instructions from their doctor. They should also inform their partners so that they can get tested and help prevent further spread of the infection. Many STIs can be cured with antibiotics.
