Preventing HIV extends beyond simply adhering to guidelines. It involves understanding the various transmission methods and precautions associated with the virus.
Ultimately, each individual is unique. Some individuals may possess a higher susceptibility to infection compared to others. To protect oneself, it’s essential to assess personal risk factors and devise a personalized prevention plan.
Here are six things you should add to your HIV prevention strategy to ensure your safety.
Communicate with Your Partner
Communication is crucial, especially when having sexual intercourse with someone for the first time. Make sure both of you have been tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) recently enough.
If your partner is HIV positive, make sure they’re taking medications that can lower the risk of transmitting it to you. Treatments like antiretroviral therapy (ART) can reduce the amount of HIV in a person’s blood to undetectable levels.
Get a Prescription of PrEP
PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis medication, is a daily tablet that, when taken consistently, can reduce the risk of HIV contraction by approximately 99 percent. It proves to be a potent tool in preventing HIV transmission if you engage in unprotected sexual activity with an HIV-positive individual or share medical equipment.
In situations where you suspect exposure to HIV during sexual encounters, there are emergency medications known as PEP, or postexposure prophylaxis, which is a 28-day course of medication.
Use Condoms
Condoms continue to be a vital method of HIV prevention. When used consistently and correctly, they can be up to 98 percent effective in reducing the risk of transmission.
Apart from HIV, condoms also provide protection against other STDs and are still the most reliable means of preventing unwanted pregnancies. So, include condoms as part of your safe intercourse practices.
Avoid Sharing Needles
If you inject drugs, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety and reduce the risk of HIV transmission. Sharing needles or any drug paraphernalia puts you at significant risk. Additionally, the water used to clean the equipment could transmit the virus if it has traces of blood.
Seek treatment options, such as joining a methadone program, which can help you manage your addiction without the use of needles, thereby lowering your risk of HIV.
Get Regular HIV Testing
Getting tested for HIV regularly is an essential step in maintaining your sexual health. If you’re currently HIV-negative, regular testing by a medical director allows you to monitor any changes in your status.
Early detection is critical, as the highest risk of transmitting the virus occurs during the acute phase, typically within the first two to four weeks of infection. Remember, some individuals may not experience any symptoms during this phase, making testing all the more important.
Stay Informed and Relax
Arming yourself with accurate information about HIV transmission and prevention is empowering. By understanding the ways in which HIV is and isn’t transmitted, you can alleviate unnecessary fears and anxieties.
Remember, HIV is primarily transmitted through specific activities such as unprotected intercourse or sharing needles. Everyday activities like kissing, hugging, or sharing utensils do not pose a risk.
