No. Many teens have heard the rumor that condoms have pores that allow tiny viruses, like HIV, to pass through. But this simply isn't true. Many researchers have tested condoms, and they all get the same results: latex condoms do not allow tiny viruses or bacteria to pass through. Lambskin condoms, however, do have naturally occurring pores and are not recommended as a safe way to protect against HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

Whew…you can breathe a sigh of relief!

One of the most well-known research studies was a two-year study of couples in which one partner was already infected with HIV and the other partner wasn't. The researchers found that when the couples used latex condoms correctly and consistently each time they had sex, not one uninfected partner contracted HIV!

What is important to remember is that although latex and polyurethane condoms are highly effective products, sometimes people don't use them correctly. To make sure you know how to use a condom, review the steps here.