The two main ways HIV is passed on are via unprotected anal & vaginal sex, or during pregnancy and birth.
Safer Sex and HIV
The simplest and most effective way to protect yourself from HIV and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) is to wear a condom.
Condoms
When the right condom is used properly they are upwards of 98% effective. But it’s important to make sure of the following:
- You have the right size condom for you. Penises come in all shapes and sizes and there are condoms to fit them all. Having the right size ensures a comfortable and safe fit.
- The condom is in date. Before you use it check the date on the condom wrapper (usually written like 05/2022). When condoms go out of date the can become more prone to breakages.
- Open the condom wrapped with your fingers, not your teeth. You don’t want to tear the condom.
- Once the condom is on use a water or silicon based lubricant on the outside of the condom.
- Change condoms if you’re having a long session, or are with multiple partners.
- Only take the condom off once you have finished and pulled out completely, and dispose of it in a bin.