But if undetected and left untreated long enough, infection in the uterine lining can leave behind scar tissue that can block the fallopian tube partially or completely and threaten fertility, says Dr. Apuzzio. The first step in preventing PID is to prevent STDs. If you already have one, the next step is to prevent a lower genital tract infection from spreading to your upper genital tract. Here are some tips. When used properly, condoms are effective protection against STDs.
Laboratory studies show that latex condoms are impermeable to just about all STDs.
There isn't any question about that. Latex condoms offer more protection than the more porous lambskin ones, says Dr. Apuzzio. Condoms with the spermicide nonoxynol-9, which has been shown to be effective in killing many infectious organisms, are particularly helpful in preventing some STDs. Or put up other barriers. If your partner won't wear a condom, use a barrier method such as a diaphragm.