Condoms are widely known to be very effective preventive measures against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). They are popular, cheap, and easily available. However, not all STDs are prevented by condoms.

In this article, we will take a look at some of the STDs that are not prevented by condoms.

What are condoms?

Condoms are thin latex sheaths that are worn over the penis during sexual intercourse in order to prevent the transfer of bodily fluids between partners. They are also sometimes made from polyurethane or other materials, such as lambskin or silicone.

Condoms are usually sold over-the-counter at drug stores, supermarkets, and other similar outlets.

Why use condoms?

Condoms are widely seen as one of the most effective ways of protecting against STDs.

They are also commonly used as a contraceptive, though it is worth noting that they are not as effective at preventing pregnancy as other methods, such as the pill or intrauterine devices. The main reason people use condoms is to avoid the transmission of STDs.

What STDs are not prevented by condoms?

Herpes

Although condoms can help to reduce the likelihood of getting herpes, they are not 100% effective. This is because herpes can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, and condoms do not always cover the affected areas.

Additionally, a herpes outbreak can occur in areas that are not covered by a condom.

HPV

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause genital warts and cervical cancer, among other health problems. While condoms can help to reduce the likelihood of getting HPV, they are not 100% effective.

This is because HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, and condoms do not always cover the affected areas. Additionally, there are many strains of HPV, some of which are not prevented by condoms.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that is caused by bacteria. While condoms can help to reduce the likelihood of getting syphilis, they are not 100% effective.

This is because syphilis can be transmitted through contact with sores, which may be present on areas that are not covered by a condom. Additionally, the sores may not be visible, particularly in the early stages of the infection, which can make transmission more likely.

Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin infection that is caused by a virus. It is typically spread through skin-to-skin contact and can occur on any part of the body.

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While condoms can help to reduce the likelihood of getting molluscum contagiosum, they are not 100% effective. This is because the virus can be present on areas that are not covered by a condom.

Pubic Lice

Pubic lice, also known as crabs, are small insects that live in pubic hair. They are typically spread through skin-to-skin contact and can be transmitted through sexual contact.

While condoms can help to reduce the likelihood of getting pubic lice, they are not 100% effective. This is because the lice can move from pubic hair to other parts of the body, such as the thighs or abdomen, which may not be covered by a condom.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that is caused by a parasite. It can cause itching, burning, and discharge. While condoms can help to reduce the likelihood of getting trichomoniasis, they are not 100% effective.

This is because the parasite can be present on areas that are not covered by a condom.

Chlamydia in Women

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which can lead to infertility.

While condoms can help to reduce the likelihood of getting chlamydia, they are not 100% effective in preventing the disease in women. This is because chlamydia can be present in the cervix, which may not be covered by a condom.

Hepatitis B and C

Hepatitis B and C are both viral infections that can cause liver disease. While condoms can help to reduce the likelihood of getting hepatitis B and C, they are not 100% effective.

This is because the viruses can be present in bodily fluids that are not covered by a condom, such as saliva or breast milk.

HIV

HIV is a viral infection that attacks the immune system. While condoms can help to reduce the likelihood of getting HIV, they are not 100% effective.

This is because the virus can be present in bodily fluids that are not covered by a condom, such as blood or breast milk. Additionally, condoms can break or slip off during intercourse, which can increase the likelihood of transmission.

Conclusion

While condoms are an effective way of protecting against many types of STDs, there are some infections that are not prevented by condoms.

Therefore, it is important for sexually active individuals to be aware of the risks associated with different STDs and to take appropriate precautions, such as regular testing and practicing safe sex.