Can condoms prevent STDs?
Condoms can protect against some STDs some of the time. Certain STDs (like HPV, herpes, and syphilis) can occur in areas that are covered or protected by a latex condom. They can also occur in areas that are not covered or protected. For these STDs, latex condoms protect against transmission only when the infection is in a protected or covered area. For other STDs, such as HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis, latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, can be effective protection. But the only 100 percent sure way not to get an STD is not to have sexual intercourse.
