HIV/AIDS

Supporting Information

Mutual fidelity between two uninfected partners protects them both from HIV/AIDS.

The more sex partners people have, the greater the risk that one of them will have HIV/AIDS and pass it on. However, anyone can have HIV/AIDS – it is not restricted to those who have many sex partners.

• A blood test is the most accurate way to tell if someone is infected with HIV. An infected person may look completely healthy.

Unless partners have sex only with each other and are sure that they are both uninfected, they should practice safer sex. Safer sex means non-penetrative sex (where the penis does not enter the mouth, vagina or rectum) or the use of a new latex condom for every act of intercourse. (Latex condoms are less likely to break or leak than animal-skin condoms or the thinner 'more sensitive' condoms.) Condoms should never be re-used.

• A condom should always be used during all penetrative sex unless it is absolutely certain that both partners are free of HIV infection. A person can become infected through even one occasion of unprotected penetrative sex (sex without a condom).
• Condoms must be used for vaginal and anal intercourse for HIV prevention.

Condoms with lubrication (slippery liquid or gel) already on them are less likely to tear during handling or use. If the condom is not lubricated enough, a 'water-based' lubricant, such as silicone or glycerine, should be added. If such lubricants are not available, saliva can be used. Lubricants made from oil or petroleum (cooking oil or shortening, mineral or baby oil, petroleum jellies such as Vaseline, most lotions) should never be used because they can damage the condom. A well-lubricated condom is absolutely essential for protection during anal intercourse.

• HIV can be transmitted through oral sex. Hence, a condom should be used on a man, and a flat piece of latex or 'dam' on a woman.

Because most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be spread through genital contact, a condom should be used before genital contact begins.

Sex without penetration is another way to have safer sex that greatly decreases the risk of getting infected with HIV (though even this does not protect against all STIs).

A safe alternative to the male condom is the female condom. The female condom is a soft, loose-fitting polyurethane sheath that lines the vagina. It has a soft ring at each end. The ring at the closed end is used to put the device inside the vagina and to hold it in place during sex. The other ring stays outside the vagina and partly covers the labia. Before sex begins, the woman inserts the female condom with her fingers. Unlike the male condom, the female condom can be used with any lubricant – whether water-based, oil-based or petroleum-based – because it is made from polyurethane.

Drinking alcohol or taking drugs interferes with judgement. Even those who understand the risks of AIDS and the importance of safer sex may become careless after drinking or using drugs.