Do condoms prevent herpes?

Condoms can help reduce the risk of transmitting or acquiring herpes during sexual activity, but they do not provide complete protection against the herpes virus. This is because herpes can be spread through skin-to-skin contact, including areas not covered by a condom.

Using condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity can significantly reduce the risk of transmission of herpes as well as other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, it is essential to note that herpes can be spread even if there are no visible symptoms or sores, so it is still possible to transmit the virus even if a condom is used.

To reduce the risk of transmitting or acquiring herpes, it is important to practice safer sex behaviors, such as using condoms, getting tested for STIs, and limiting sexual partners. Additionally, if you or your partner have herpes, antiviral medication can be taken to reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission.