Effectiveness of condoms in preventing HIV transmission

Recent meta-analyses of condom effectiveness suggest that condoms are 60 to 70% effective when used for HIV prophylaxis. A re-examination of HIV seroconversion studies suggests that condoms are 90 to 95% effective when used consistently, i.e. consistent condom users are 10 to 20 times less likely to become infected when exposed to the virus than are inconsistent or non-users. Similar results are obtained utilizing model-based estimation techniques, which indicate that condoms decrease the per-contact probability of male-to-female transmission of HIV by about 95%.

Condom effectiveness in reducing heterosexual HIV transmission

Review of 14 rigorous studies to re-estimate condom effectiveness in reducing heterosexual transmission of HIV. Finds consistent condoms use results in an 80% reduction in HIV incidence, i.e 80% less than the particular act without condoms. Consistent use is defined as using a condom for all acts of penetrative vaginal intercourse.

How reliable is an undetectable viral load

Considers the reliability of viral load as a condition preventing HIV transmission. Found reliability is high with compliance taking medication the most important factor predicting reliability.

Prevention of HIV-1 Infection with Early Antiretroviral Therapy

Reports findings of OPTN 052 study based in nine countries, which found early initiation of antiretroviral therapy reduced rates of sexual transmission of HIV-1 and clinical events, indicating both personal and public health benefits from such therapy.

The effect of sexually transmitted co-infections on HIV viral load amongst individuals on antiretroviral therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Analyses 14 studies to find evidence about the effects of STI co-infection on transmission from individuals on ART is very limited. Available data suggests the average effect of STI co-infection on HIV viral load in individuals on ART is unlikely to decrease the effectiveness of treatment as prevention. However, limited data precluded ruling out the possibility that particular STIs pose a larger threat.