Condom failure among men receiving sexually transmissible infection clinic services, Cape Town, South Africa

Condoms offer the most realistic and available protection against sexually transmissible infections (STIs), including HIV infection. The protective benefits of condoms are, however compromised by breaks and tears. Condom failure was associated with sexual exchange, alcohol and other drug use, and higher rates of unprotected vaginal intercourse. Men with a history of condom failure were significantly more likely to have an STI diagnosis 1 month before the baseline interview and were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with an STI over the subsequent year. Condom failures are common among STI clinic patients and pose a threat for increased HIV transmission risks.