Q & A.

>Has anyone heard of any case where STDs were exchanged in spite of using Condoms?

Herpes is well documented as being possible to spread through skin to skin contact, even non-broken skin. Kissing can also spread diseases. See also: pubic lice, molluscum contagiosum, certain strains of hepatitis, HPV, the common cold, etc.

>how do you know the man you are seeing is not carrying something?

No one in a sexual relationship knows this for certain, so we all should protect ourselves as much as possible or to the limits of our risk tolerance. And a quick once over of your partner for lesions/abnormal discharge never hurts.

>How do you normally ensure you haven't picked up something?

Everyone who is sexually active (especially with multiple partners) should have a full STD testing panel done regularly. Of course, there's always a window of error -- see previous answer on how to cope with that.

-- Modified on 1/28/2010 1:26:58 PM

that they are too porous to prevent viruses from being transmitted.  They are only valuable for birth control.

says what you like - you like the exotic, which means fun, fun, and more fun! But your questions show nothing but fear.

FACT: STDs/STIs exist. Get the full story about each and every one of the possibles on health sites and from the CDC. That will answer your questions more than we can - and you'll have the authority of doctors and scientists behind your research.  

FACT: There are things you can do to reduce your exposure. The first and most obvious is don't kiss, don't touch another person ever again and certainly don't have sex. OTOH, If you're very careful, you reduce your chances of getting them. Condoms don't generally break and they don't cover all STIs (like herpes and bugs), BUT they offer the most protection for a safer time with the lady of your choice.

FACT: You already asked these questions. Did you really think the answers were going to change just because you posted it again?

If you're that afraid, then the answer is simple: don't play.  

If, however, you're serious about playing - which I presume you are since you're posting - then swallow your germ-phobia, put on a cover, jump into the pool and start swimming!