Condoms are thin sheaths made of latex, polyurethane, or lambskin that are used to cover the penis during intercourse. They serve as barriers between semen and bodily fluids and prevent direct contact between people during sexual activity. Condom usage has become an essential part of safe sex practices because they can reduce the risk of contracting several diseases.
How do condoms work?
When worn correctly, condoms act as physical barriers against sperm, viruses, bacteria, parasites, and other microbes transmitted through body fluids like semen, vaginal discharge, blood, saliva, urine, feces, etc. The latex material is designed to be porous enough to allow for sensation but thick enough to prevent pathogens from passing through it. Proper use ensures no leakage, tearing, slipping off, or rolling back after ejaculation. Some condoms are lubricated with water-based or silicone lubricant to increase comfort and avoid friction burns.
What types of infections does their use protect against?
The following are some common infections that condoms can help prevent if used correctly every time a couple engages in sexual activities:
Chlamydia - This is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis which causes genital inflammation leading to burning, painful urination, abnormal vaginal discharge, swollen testicles, and other symptoms. It is easily cured with antibiotics, but untreated cases may cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility.
Gonorrhea - Gonorrhea is also a bacterial infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, similar to chlamydia but more resistant to antibiotic treatment. Symptoms include painful urination, yellowish discharge from the penis, rectum, or throat, and severe pain in joints and eyes. Untreated cases may lead to epididymitis, prostatitis, PID, infertility, and even death.
Syphilis - Syphilis is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection caused by Treponema pallidum bacterium that spreads through skin lesions. Early symptoms include rashes and sores on the genitals, anus, mouth, hands, and feet. Left untreated, syphilis leads to nerve damage, paralysis, brain damage, blindness, heart attacks, and eventually death.
HIV/AIDS - HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus, while AIDS stands for acquired immune deficiency syndrome. The former causes progressive destruction of the immune system, resulting in life-threatening conditions such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, fungal infections, and cancers. HIV is not curable, but antiretroviral therapy can suppress its activity and prevent progression to AIDS. However, there is no vaccine against it yet.
Herpes - Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 and type 2 cause blisters or sores around the mouth and genital area respectively. These are highly contagious viruses with no cure, though antiviral drugs can manage their symptoms. In some cases, herpes causes recurrent flare-ups with extreme pain and discomfort.
HPV - Human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11 cause warts in the genital region. Some strains like 16 and 18 lead to cervical cancer in women. Condoms may offer partial protection against HPV transmission but do not guarantee full safety. Vaccination is the best way to prevent HPV.
How effective are condoms?
Condoms have been proven effective in reducing the risk of most STIs by up to 90%. This estimate is based on the consistent use of condoms during intercourse without failures in application or removal. It also assumes perfect storage and handling of condoms. Improper application can reduce effectiveness significantly, increasing the chances of breakage, slippage, or leakage. To maximize their efficacy, couples should follow these guidelines:
Use water-based lubricants instead of oil-based ones. Oil-based products like petroleum jelly and lotion make latex weak and prone to rupture.
Read instructions carefully and apply them correctly before engaging in sex. Do not put condoms