Which statement aligns with updated CDC guidance on condoms preventing STDs?

Which statement aligns with updated CDC guidance on condoms preventing STDs?

• A. Always use spermicides with condoms.
• B. Condoms can be effective in preventing infections transmitted by fluids but are not always effective in preventing infections transmitted by skin-to-skin contact.
• C. Condoms should not be used during oral sex.
• D. When genital ulcers are present, condoms should be used to prevent the spread of infection.

Answer: (B)

Condoms are a barrier that greatly reduces the risk of infections transmitted through bodily fluids, such as HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia, when used consistently and correctly. However, they do not cover all skin surfaces, so infections that spread through skin-to-skin contact, like herpes simplex virus and human papillomavirus, can still be transmitted even with a condom in place. This is why updated guidance emphasizes protection against fluid-borne infections while acknowledging that risk remains for skin-to-skin transmitted infections. Spermicides with condoms aren’t required for STI protection and can irritate mucous membranes, which may increase risk. Condoms can be used during oral sex to reduce risk, and while using a condom when genital ulcers are present can help lower transmission risk, it does not eliminate it completely because affected skin outside the condom-covered area can still transmit infection.

Condoms are a barrier that greatly reduces the risk of infections transmitted through bodily fluids, such as HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia, when used consistently and correctly. However, they do not cover all skin surfaces, so infections that spread through skin-to-skin contact, like herpes simplex virus and human papillomavirus, can still be transmitted even with a condom in place. This is why updated guidance emphasizes protection against fluid-borne infections while acknowledging that risk remains for skin-to-skin transmitted infections.

Spermicides with condoms aren’t required for STI protection and can irritate mucous membranes, which may increase risk. Condoms can be used during oral sex to reduce risk, and while using a condom when genital ulcers are present can help lower transmission risk, it does not eliminate it completely because affected skin outside the condom-covered area can still transmit infection.