In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.
 EMAIL TO FRIEND     |      PRINTER FRIENDLY     |    
          advertisement

Do Condoms Really Prevent AIDS?

By:
Ruth Westheimer

Question :

I was wondering how effective condoms are in protecting against HIV. I was told that they are pretty effective. I was wondering what your input on this matter was.

Answer :

There's a very good reason that I only speak of safer sex and not safe sex, and that's that there is no 100 percent sure way of preventing the transmission of HIV if you are having sex with an infected partner. Latex condoms, not the sheepskin variety, do prevent the virus from entering the vagina, but condoms do break once in a while; some people are careless in removing the condom and leakage could seep into the vagina; and the virus can also be communicated through oral sex. If you really want to be protected against AIDS, in addition to using condoms, both partners should be tested for the virus first, and after you've been given the all clear, you have to be able to trust one another not to cheat and have sex outside of the relationship.

 

advertisement

Advice from Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Helpful tips and information on weight loss

Get answers from an expert
advertisement

YourTotalHealth      

Home  |  Health Centers  |  Health A-Z  |  Staying Healthy  |  Diet & Fitness  |  Woman & Family  |  Pregnancy  |  Community  |  

also on iVillage: Pregnancy & Parenting  |  Beauty & Style  |  Home & Garden  |  Food  |  Weddings  |  Love  |  Entertainment  |  NeverSayDiet

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Site Map  |  Newsletters  |  Feedback

Copyright (c) 2000-2009 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.