Condoms and STDs: What’s the Score?
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by: Ken Brower
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There can be no questioning that STD occurrences drop when a population reports prevalent condom use, especially when used correctly and diligently, and concurrently with other contraceptives. But what exactly are the types of diseases that contraceptives like condom can prevent?
Condoms have been found to be almost completely effective against chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. These diseases are transferred through the exchange of seminal fluid or vaginal secretions. Chlamydia is caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis and primarily affects both men and women. Symptoms include lower abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and pain during sex. If left untreated, it can cause sterility and premature delivery among pregnant women.
Gonorrhea is a common STD caused by the infection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can be acquired through vaginal, anal, as well as oral sex, since the bacteria thrives on warm, moist parts of the body such as the cervix, urethra, and the mouth. Gonorrhea may be diagnosed when one experiences burning sensation during urination and observes yellowish discharges from the penis or vagina.
Trichomoniasis is caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, a protozoa. Though most infected men commonly feel no symptoms, there has been report of irritation and slight burning sensation while urinating in some patients. These symptoms are more pronounced among infected women, as well as itching and odorous discharge. This disease increases the risk of women in contacting HIV, especially when they neglect to use condoms.
Other STDs, like syphilis and herpes, can be prevented through the use of condoms. However these infections can also spread outside of sexual contact. The reason for this is that the microorganisms causing these diseases can also be found in skin sores and blisters, areas that condoms do not cover and other contraceptives cannot address.
However, HIV prevention is probably the biggest incentive for using condoms and other contraceptives, especially among persons having more than one sex partners. Most STDs are quite curable, HIV is not and is much more fatal. Be aware, though, that as in the case of trichomoniasis, the occurrence of STDs increases a person’s chances of contacting HIV. In studies done on couples where one is HIV-positive and the other is not, there is no report of disease transmission in partners diligently using condoms, compared to those who prefer to “natural” all the way.
Latex condoms act as barriers in which STD pathogens cannot cross. When used properly, an infected man or woman will not put his or her partner at risk. Caution should be advised for those using lambskin condoms, however, as there is no evidence of its efficacy against the transmission of STDs. Several recent studies also revealed that condoms added with the spermicide nonoxynol-9 increases the chances of STD transmission.
Condom efficacy almost always depends on proper selection and use. With practice and experience, select a product that fits the penis snugly, as too tight condoms can cause breakage and loose ones can easily slip off. Before use, check the expiration date and make sure the condom is stored properly, as increased temperature and exposure to light and friction can also make it brittle and breaks easily. Avoid opening the foil package with teeth or fingernails, to prevent tearing any part. Always use condoms and other contraceptives, such as pills and spermicide foam, in every sexual act. There can be underestimating the importance of contraceptives in sex, be it genital or oral, and even if you practice sexual monogamy.
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