Are condoms effective in preventing HIV transmission?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that correct and consistent use of a latex barrier for protection during sex greatly reduces the risk of transmitting HIV. Condoms can protect the mouth, vagina or rectum from HIV-infected semen. Male condoms protect the penis from HIV-infected vaginal fluids and blood in the mouth, vagina, or rectum. Female condoms can be inserted into the vagina or rectum to prevent HIV transmission. They also reduce the risk of spreading other sexually transmitted diseases. Latex is the most common material for condoms. Viruses cannot get through it. Never use oil-based lubricants like Vasoline, salad oil or hand or body lotion. These can cause tears and leaks in the latex causing it to break. Instead, use a water-based lubricant such as K-Y Jelly. Polyurethane is an option for people who are allergic to latex. Lambskin or natural condoms have pores small enough for HIV to pass through; they do NOT prevent the spread of HIV.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that correct and consistent use of a latex barrier for protection during sex greatly reduces the risk of transmitting HIV. Knowing how to use a latex barrier correctly is important. Failure is largely due to incorrect or inconsistent use. Make sure that the barrier is latex or polyurethane—natural or lambskin have pores that HIV is able to pass through, and should not be used. Also, never use oil-based lubricants like Vaseline®, baby oil, or lotion, which can cause tears and leaks in the latex, ultimately causing it to break. Instead, use a water-based lubricant such as K-Y Jelly®, Wet®, ID®, or Astroglide®. Observe the expiration date on the package and tear it open carefully. Never use a product that has been exposed to heat or the sun.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that correct and consistent use of a latex barrier for protection during sex greatly reduces the risk of transmitting HIV. Condoms can protect the mouth, vagina or rectum from HIV-infected semen. Male condoms protect the penis from HIV-infected vaginal fluids and blood in the mouth, vagina, or rectum. Female condoms can be inserted into the vagina or rectum to prevent HIV transmission. They also reduce the risk of spreading other sexually transmitted diseases. Latex is the most common material for condoms. Viruses cannot get through it. Never use oil-based lubricants like Vaseline, salad oil or hand or body lotion. These can cause tears and leaks in the latex causing it to break. Instead, use a water-based lubricant such as K-Y Jelly. Polyurethane is an option for people who are allergic to latex. Lambskin or natural condoms have pores small enough for HIV to pass through; they do NOT prevent the spread of HIV. Condoms must be
