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HIV Prevention

Keeping risky fluids out of risky openings is the safest way to be sure that you will not be infected with HIV or any other sexually-transmitted disease (STD). That can include not being sexual or being sexual in ways that keep the risky fluids from entering the body. This would also include not sharing sex toys between partners. Having sex in a monogamous relationship with a person who is free from HIV or any other STD is also safe. Finally, a latex or polyurethane barrier (male condoms, female condoms, dental dams) during oral, anal or vaginal sex is an effective protection against HIV and STD's.

Recent studies have warned women at risk for HIV not to use products containing the microbicide nonoxynol-9 (found in most contraceptive creams, gels, suppositories, foams, films and sponges.) The chemical may increase the risk for acquiring HIV because it is irritating to the body.

During injection drug use, the safest way to be sure that you will not be infected wit HIV is to always use sterile injecting equipment. Never share needles, syringes, and other injection equipment. If someone decides to share syringes, they should use syringes cleaned with bleach and water. This is effective but not as safe as using new sterile syringes. Be sure all equipment and supplies used (cotton, water, needles) are not contaminated.

You are safe if you are in a relationship in which both you and your partner are monogamous and have been free of HIV for 6 months. Whenever you are unsure about the risk of infection, always use a latex barrier when having sex of any kind- vaginal, oral or anal.

Click here to find out where to get free safer sex and other prevention supplies.