PIP: The UN 1994 International Conference on Population and Development has encouraged the provision of services for syndromic treatment for clients with symptoms or signs of infection, laboratory screening and sexually transmitted disease (STD) risk assessment to guide contraceptive counseling. This proposal was raised in the light of the growing HIV and STD global concern and the use of contraceptive methods for STD prevention. Despite recommendations on using barrier methods for STD/HIV prevention, many family planning providers hesitate about endorsing barrier methods because of lesser efficacy in preventing unintended pregnancies. However, several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of male and female condoms when used consistently and correctly. In addition, accumulated data on condom use and HIV infection revealed that consistent use of male condoms protect against HIV acquisition (protection ranging from 50% to 100%). These findings underscore the effectiveness of condoms in preventing STD/HIV when used consistently and correctly and should be encouraged at every opportunity.