Efficacy of the condom as a barrier to the transmission of cytomegalovirus

Abstract

An in vitro model was used to determine whether latex condoms prevent the transmission of cytomegalovirus. When the condoms were submitted to stretching and trauma that simulated sexual intercourse, no transmission of cytomegalovirus across the condom barrier was detected. Condoms may therefore be used to minimize the transmission of cytomegalovirus via semen in both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse.