Blog #3: HIV Risk Reduction
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is transmitted by blood, semen and pre-seminal fluids, rectal and vaginal fluids, and breast milk. HIV cannot be spread by saliva, though it can be spread by the blood of two individuals who are kissing deeply and both have open wounds/leaking blood in the mouth.
To help reduce one’s risk of either transmitting or acquiring HIV, here are some tips in the bedroom:
Use safer sex products (e.g. condoms and dental dams) every time. See Blog #1!
Actively communicate with partners about sexual safety and honesty. Have sex with people who you trust to look out for you.
Avoid factors that increase risk-taking or impair decision-making, such as combining illicit drug use with sex.
Performing/receiving oral sex has the lowest HIV transmission rate, as the virus can only be transmitted from a HIV+ receiver to a performer with open mouth sores. Keep in mind that receiving anal sex has the highest transmission rate, so take proper precautions when engaging in anal sex.
Abstain from sex if desired. This is not mandatory, as there are ways to have sex while still preventing HIV transmission!
For more information, check out the National Institute of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention!