There are so many different condoms on the market. How can I tell which are the most effective?

--R.

Latex condoms are the only ones that help reduce the transmission of all STDs, including HIV -- and notice I said "reduce," not "eliminate completely." Natural lambskin condoms may allow the tiny HIV particles through. As far as brands go, all condom batches are required to undergo testing to ensure that they are not prone to breakage or leaking. One brand is no more effective than another, although different brands may have different bells and whistles (ribbing, lubrication, etc).