There are an estimated 15.3 million cases of STDs diagnosed every year in the United States. Many people who contract an STD don't know that they have one until its too late. Alexander added that by using a condom you avoid getting or transmitting an infection that you might not even know that you have. According to the Institute of Medicine, five of the top 10 most frequently reported infectious diseases in the U.S. are sexually transmitted. One-fourth of new STD cases each year occur in teenagers.
Prevention is the key, but even among condoms some types are better than others.
Among the many types of condoms, the male latex condom is considered the most effective in preventing STDs. The female condom, which is made of polyurethane, is also considered very effective for STD prevention. A male polyurethane condom is now available, although its effectiveness against STDs is still being tested. Natural membrane condoms are not recommended for STD prevention. We encourage sex partners to talk openly about the sensitive subject of sexual health and to use condoms to protect one another from sexually transmitted diseases.