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Be Extra Careful If...

by Editor

Some factors in your life can mean that you are more vulnerable to HIV infection - here we list them...

You Have Multiple Partners...

By choosing this lifestyle you automatically put yourself in a higher risk category where you are more vulnerable to HIV infection and other STIs.

You must be aware that while condoms do offer the best form of protection they are not always 100% effective; if you don’t put them on properly they can rip or tear during sex. If you are having sex with someone you’ve just met you run the risk that they might be HIV+.

You Use Drugs...

Illegal drugs of any description put you at risk – they can impair your perception of everyday situations and you may do things you wouldn’t normally do when sober – for example you might have a one night stand, without a condom.

The most at risk group of drug users are those that choose to inject. If you do this you must always make sure you use clean, sterile needles and syringes. If you share this equipment then chances are you could be sharing HIV.

You're A Gay Man

Homosexual men are more likely to practice anal sex than heterosexual couples. Anal sex carries a higher risk of infection than vaginal as the inside of the anus is a lot more delicate. This risk is the same if you practice anal sex whether you’re gay, straight or bisexual.

If You Exchange Sex For Gifts Or Money...

Again the more sexual partners you have, the higher the risk of becoming infected with HIV.

People who exchange gifts or money for sex sometimes think they have control over you – they may even try and pressure you into not using a condom or having risky sex like with multiple partners (threesomes/orgies or anal sex).

Some people who sell sex also have a drug habit which increases the risk even more.

You Live In A Country With A High Infection Rate...

There are some countries in the world where HIV affects a large proportion of people. If you live in one of these countries you must ensure you use a condom each and every time you have sex. If condoms aren’t available then the safest option is to not to have sex.