The use of condoms for preventing the transmission of HSV-2 is not foolproof. Even a small tear can permit passage of the virus. However, studies show that regular condom use can significantly reduce the risk of HSV-2 infection.
Condoms made of latex are less likely to slip or break than those made of polyurethane. “Natural” condoms made from animal skin do not protect against HSV infection because herpes viruses can pass through them.
Women appear to be better protected than men are by male condoms. The reason may be that men shed HSV-2 from the skin of the penis, which is covered by the condom. However, in women the virus is often shed from skin areas around the genital area, which can have contact to skin areas in the male outside the condom.
The female condom is another option for infected women or partners of infected men. The female condom covers a large area and is an effective barrier to sexually transmitted viruses.
Note on Lubricants and Spermicides. Only water-based lubricants (K-Y Jelly, Astroglide, AquaLube, glycerin) should be used. Oil-based lubricants (petroleum jelly, body lotions, cooking oil) can weaken latex.
Some condoms come prelubricated with sperm-killing substances called spermicides, which are no longer recommended. The standard active ingredient in spermicides is nonoxynol-9, which attacks the surface of the sperm cell. Nonoxynol-9 does not provide any additional protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It can cause yeast and urinary tract infections in women. In addition, it can cause irritation around the genital areas, which makes it easier for herpes and other STDs to be transmitted. In fact, research now suggests that it actually increases the risk for HIV in women.
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