If my partner is having an outbreak of herpes or genital warts, am I protected from infection when having intercourse if a condom is used?
No, not necessarily! Genital herpes and genital warts (HPV) can occur in genital areas that are not covered or protected by a latex condom. The condom does not cover all of the areas that are vulnerable to herpes and genital warts. Condoms used the right way, from start to finish each time of having sex, may help provide some protection from infection on the skin that is covered by the condom. However, engaging in sexual activity when either partner is having an outbreak of either STD is risky, since the risk of contracting and transmitting either disease when the infections are active is significant, even with a condom.
Related Questions
- If my partner has a history of herpes and genital warts and is not currently having an outbreak of either warts or herpes, can I contract either of the STDs from vaginal or anal intercourse?
- If my partner has a history of herpes and genital warts and is not currently having an outbreak of either warts or herpes, can I contract either of the STDs from oral sex?
- If my partner is having an outbreak of herpes or genital warts, am I protected from infection when having intercourse if a condom is used?
