Condoms and female condoms only provide protection when used properly as a barrier, and only to and from the area that it covers. "Uncovered areas are still susceptible to many STDs". In the case of HIV, sexual transmission routes almost always involve the penis, as HIV cannot spread through unbroken skin, thus "properly shielding the insertive penis with a properly worn condom from the vagina or anus effectively stops HIV transmission". An infected fluid to broken skin borne direct transmission of HIV would not be considered "sexually transmitted", but can still theoretically occur during sexual contact, this can be avoided simply by not engaging in sexual contact when having open bleeding wounds. Other STDs, even viral infections, can be prevented with the use of latex, polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms as a barrier. Some microorganisms and viruses are small enough to pass through the pores in natural skin condoms, but are still too large to pass through latex or synthetic condoms.

Proper usage entails:

Not following the first five guidelines above perpetuates the common misconception that condoms are not tested or designed properly.

In order to best protect oneself and the partner from STIs, the old condom and its contents should be assumed to be infectious. Therefore the old condom must be properly disposed of. A new condom should be used for each act of intercourse, as multiple usage increases the chance of breakage, defeating the effectiveness as a barrier.

Cause
Condoms
History
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