Barrier methods may offer some protection against AIDS
Network 1987(Spec No): 8
1987
ISSN/ISBN: 0270-3637 PMID: 12281265 Document Number: 376393
While barrier methods such as condoms and spermicides appear to offer protection against the AIDS virus, further research is needed. Other than abstinence, monogamy, and the curtailment of sexual activities with multiple partners, barrier methods seem to be the only protection against AIDS. Studies have shown that HIV cannot pass through latex or synthetic skin condoms, and that HIV is killed by exposure to spermicidally treated condoms. Studies also indicate that condoms protect against bacterial STDs such as gonorrhea, mycoplasma, and hospitalized pelvic inflammatory disease. A study in the US followed 24 uninfected sexual partners of AIDS patients for 12-36 months. Only 1 partner among the 10 couples who used condoms contracted HIV, but 12 partners among the 14 couples who did not used condoms became infected. A study in Zaire revealed that prostitutes whose clients often used condoms reported much lower rates of infection than women whose clients rarely used condoms. Furthermore, laboratory studies indicate that spermicides such as nonoxynol-9 are effective against a variety of STDs, including HIV. A study conducted in Thailand found that the use of vaginal sponges impregnated with nonoxynol-9 significantly reduced the rates of chlamydia and gonorrhea among prostitutes. But just as condoms and spermicides do not completely eliminate the risk of pregnancy, neither can they be expected to offer complete protection against HIV. Moreover, these methods must be used regardless of other contraceptive practices. The article concludes by pointing out the need for further research into the acceptability and effectiveness of different barrier methods.