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Safer Sex

There is much confusion with regards to the sex life of people with HIV. Remember this, people who are HIV- positive play an important role in managing the transmission of HIV.

There are many questions that you may want to ask but are embarrassed, afraid or you just don't know whom to ask. Your best bet is your doctor. We have also answered some frequently asked questions which may help clarify it for you.

Is it safe for a HIV-negative person to have sex for someone who is HIV-positive?

Using a condom lowers the risk of transmission. You might also consider telling the person about your HIV-positive status. They have a right to know.

I am afraid that may infect my partner. What should I do?

Talk to your partner about your fears and decide on alternative ways to enjoy each other. Intimate activities like kissing, massaging etc presents very little risk.

What are the usual ways that HIV is transmitted?

HIV is present is semen, blood, and vaginal fluid. It can be transmitted by having unprotected sex (not using a condom), by sharing contaminated needles and from mother to child.

What is safer sex?

Safer sex is sex that avoids contact with semen, blood and vaginal fluid from getting into the bloodstream of another person.

Is oral sex safe? What if the other person has sores or cut in the mouth?

If you have any doubts, use a condom or dental dams.

Is it safe to have sex when a person with HIV-positive has her period?

The risks are lowered when the male partner uses a condom. HIV is present in blood and having unprotected sex (without a condom) has the risk of transmission.

If both partners are HIV-positive should we still use protection (condom)?

Yes. You may suffer the risk of getting infected with sexually transmitted infections or different strains of HIV (re-infection).

What is re-infection?

Re-infection means someone getting a new or secondary infection from a virus that has already infected them. This happens because of the different strains of the virus. People with HIV may become re-infected through unsafe sex.

How effective is a condom?

It does not provide 100% protection from HIV but close to 100% if it used correctly. It also lowers the risk of getting other sexually transmitted diseases. It is the only effective option we have for now.

Do condoms come in various sizes?

Yes. It's important to find one that fits.

Why is the size important?

If it's too large, there's a chance that semen can flow out and transmit HIV. If it's too small, it may cause a tear which also means that semen can flow out.

Are there condoms for women?

Yes, but they are quite expensive. Check with your doctor where you can purchase them.

Is there any right way to put on a condom?

Yes:
 

1. Check the condom packet to make sure that it's your size. And that it has not expired. Then, carefully tear open the packet and take out the condom.

2. Put the condom on the head of erect penis. Pinch the tip to expel air bubbles.

3. While continuing to pinch the tip, use your other hand to unroll the condom right to the base of the penis.

4. If necessary, apply a water-based lubricant such as 'KY Jelly'

5. After ejaculation, withdraw penis carefully before it loses its errection. Hold the rim tight against the penis to prevent spillage.

6. Take off the condom, knot the open end, wrap in toilet paper and dispose into the garbage. Do not flush used condom into toilet bowl.
    

Are there lubricants that are recommended to use with condom?

It's best to use water-based lubricant like 'KY Jelly'. Lubricants like 'Vaseline', lotion and oil tend to damage condoms which may mean that semen can flow out.

These are just guidelines and by no means complete.
Please talk to your doctor about other precautions that you may need to take.