The “ABC faithful” individuals—those who adhere to abstinence, being faithful, and using condoms—can significantly reduce their risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, herpes, and HPV. With the continued availability and use of HPV vaccination, we now have a real chance to nearly eliminate some types of STDs entirely in the future.
At the 2011 Annual Clinical Meeting of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, updates in STD management were presented. The fact remains that over 40 million Americans are living with an incurable STD known as HPV, and others with HIV, which still poses a serious public health challenge. As of recent years, there are more than 110 million total STD infections in the U.S., with about 20 million new infections occurring each year.
Protect Yourself with Consistent Condom Use
It’s important to understand how to best protect ourselves. Dr. Jennifer Gunter of San Francisco emphasized that consistent condom use remains one of the most effective personal tools against STDs. However, only about 40% of individuals report using condoms when they have sex with a new partner. This means that the majority of people are still at risk during their most vulnerable encounters.
Protection is a personal responsibility. Don’t assume your partner has it covered—always carry condoms, just like you wouldn’t leave home without your keys or phone. Interestingly, some data suggest that married individuals report higher condom use than unmarried ones, likely due to communication around fertility planning, though couples in long-term monogamous relationships tend to have a lower risk of STD transmission.
In global health strategies, particularly in countries like Uganda, the “ABC” approach remains central: A for abstinence, B for being faithful, and C for condom use. While abstinence provides the most effective protection, reducing the risk of HIV by over 85%, HPV by 70%, and herpes by around 30%, it’s not always practical for everyone. Over a three-year period, approximately 60% of young women will contract HPV, and by the end of their lives, about 80% of all people will have been exposed to it. Condoms, when used consistently and correctly, significantly reduce the likelihood of becoming one of those statistics.
The CDC has updated its terminology—what was once called “unprotected sex” is now termed “condomless sex” to better reflect the risk context and inclusive health communication. Using a condom that fits well is essential, as an ill-fitting condom is more likely to break or slip off. This not only compromises safety but can also interfere with comfort and pleasure. Adding spermicide can increase protection, although it’s not recommended for frequent use due to potential irritation in some individuals.
It’s important to talk to your gynecologist regularly about STD prevention strategies, including condom options, regardless of your current birth control method. Open conversation remains a cornerstone of sexual health and protection.
