Commentary: condoms and HIV/STD prevention--clarifying the message.

Abstract

In the United States and throughout the world, the majority of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections are sexually transmitted. an estimated 12 million other sexually transmitted diseases occur annually in the United States. Avoiding sexual intercourse altogether or restricting sex to partners known to be uninfected will prevent infection; this needs to be promoted as the most effective strategy. Studies show that correct and consistent use of latex condoms is highly effective in preventing sexually transmitted HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases. The effectiveness of condoms depends on individual behavior leading to correct and consistent use. Further studies are needed to maximize the use and effectiveness of condoms for those who choose to be sexually active as well as to develop and evaluate other methods, particularly those more under the control of women. In the interim, our prevention message should be clear: When used correctly and consistently, condoms are highly effective; when used otherwise, they are not.

Female-Initiated Barrier Methods for the Prevention of STI/HIV: Where Are We Now? Where Should We Go?

“…2 Prevention efforts early in the AIDS epidemic promoted careful partner selection, 3 reduction in the number of one's partners, 4 and use of the male condom. 4,5 Dr. Latka Advocates soon noticed that, for women, these prevention strategies were ineffective or unrealistic. They were ineffective in terms of partner reduction since many women in areas with high HIV prevalence [6][7][8] or found through high-risk settings in the US [9][10][11][12] do not themselves have multiple partners.…”

Sexual Practices and HIV Prevalence amongst Men Who Have Sex with Men at a Community-Based Voluntary Counseling and Testing Centre in Malaysia

“…Correct and consistent condom use during sexual intercourse remains the most effective method of preventing HIV transmission [22,23]. In the ai "100% Condom Use Programme" in the 1990s, condom use was aggressively promoted in sex work venues, resulting in increased condom use in these settings and decline of �ve major sexually transmitted diseases in men by 79%, thus demonstrating the efficacy of condom usage.…”

The use of nonoxynol-9 for protection against cervical gonorrhea.

“…Eligibility criteria included (1) age of at least 18 years; (2) (5) willingness to use the study products, maintain a coital log (a calendar on which coitus, condom use, and spermicide use could be marked daily), and return monthly for 1 year for follow-up visits.…”