Beyond Birth Control: Condoms Offer Critical STI Protection, Experts Say
NEW DELHI – While widely recognized for preventing unintended pregnancy, condoms provide a crucial, often underemphasized benefit: protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. Health professionals are reinforcing this message as STI rates remain a significant public health concern.
Condoms act as a physical barrier, dramatically reducing the risk of transmitting STIs by preventing the exchange of bodily fluids and minimizing contact with infected skin during sexual activity. This protection extends to various forms of sexual contact – vaginal,anal,and oral – and even applies to shared sex toys,according to Doctor Tanaya,a leading voice in sexual health education. ”Make sure to always cover the penis with a condom in cases of anal, oral or vaginal sex,” Doctor Tanaya stated. She further advises condom use on shared sex toys during vaginal intercourse to mitigate transmission risks.
However, it’s vital to note that condoms are not foolproof against all STIs. Infections causing extra-genital ulcers, such as syphilis and herpes, can still be transmitted despite consistent condom use. Therefore, regular STI testing, particularly with new partners, remains vital for comprehensive sexual health management. Consistent and correct condom usage, coupled with routine screenings, offers the most robust defense against the spread of STIs and safeguards individual and public health.