Condoms reduce the risk of many sexually transmitted infections, but they do not provide complete protection against infections that can spread through skin-to-skin contact.

- Human papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom, allowing transmission even when condoms are used correctly.

- Pubic lice (crabs)

Pubic lice can spread through close body contact and may live in hair-bearing areas not protected by a condom.

- Molluscum contagiosum

This viral skin infection spreads through direct skin contact and may affect areas beyond condom coverage.

- Syphilis

If a syphilis sore is present on skin not covered by a condom, the infection can still be transmitted.

- Genital herpes

Herpes can spread through contact with infected skin or sores outside the area covered by a condom.