Dear Dr. Peg,
Can using latex condoms frequently result in urinary tract infections in women? Do latex condoms pose any risks for women if used frequently?
My first reaction to your question is that you're at greater risk if you don't use a condom, unless you replace it with another form of contraception. Pregnancy is much riskier than a urinary tract infection, and chlamydia is worse than a rash. That said, the answer is yes, using condoms can pose risks for women.
As you probably know, condoms come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and even flavors. They can be latex or not. They can be lubricated or not. They can contain spermicide or not. And so on. Just start shopping - you'll find something for everyone. And most of the time, there are no problems.
But condoms are not necessarily for everyone. Men and women can develop an allergy to latex, the most common ingredient in a condom. A latex allergy can cause skin discomfort and a rash. A severe latex allergy, while rare, can be life-threatening.
Other people are sensitive to some of the chemicals found in condoms, particularly the spermicides nonoxynol-9 and nonoxynol-11. A woman might get a rash on the vulva (the skin outside the vagina) or feel burning or soreness after sex.
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If you think you are allergic to latex or sensitive to the condom chemicals, experiment with different types of condoms to find out. Just be careful. Not all condoms are equal, and not all materials will stop infection. Be sure to read the label.
You asked specifically about condoms and urinary tract infections. Yes, condom use by her male partner can increase a woman's chance of UTI. One study showed the risk tripled in condom users. Urinary tract infection is more likely if the condom has spermicide in it. It seems spermicide actually promotes growth of certain bacteria near the urethra. To avoid UTI, try a nonlubricated condom, and make sure you urinate after sex.
Some people, women and men, feel that condoms blunt sensation and reduce the pleasure of sex. On the other hand, how pleasurable is sex when you're worrying about pregnancy or infection? Remember, condoms are the only form of birth control that also prevent sexually transmitted infections.
You can buy condoms at the Student Health and Counseling pharmacy or at your local drugstore. If you want more information about methods of contraception, visit our Web site at UNM.edu/~shc1, or call (505) 277-3136 for an appointment.
Peggy Spencer, M.D., has been a UNM Student Health physician for 17 years and a Daily Lobo contributing columnist for three years. She is co-author of the book 50 Ways to Leave Your 40s, released in March. E-mail your questions to her directly at Pspencer@unm.edu. All questions will be considered, and all questioners will remain anonymous. This column has general health information only and cannot replace a visit to a health care provider.
