HIV Transmission Routes
Sexually based activities
Anal sex : always use a condom especially designed for anal sex with a water based lubricant. Any sexual penetration : use a condom again with a water based lube. Oral sex : if there are any cuts or sores present in the mouth or around it or if any dental work especially extractions has been done during the previous 72 hours dental dams or a piece of latex or even Clingfilm can be used as protection at such times. Corporal punishment : following flogging whipping etc that has resulted in broken skin avoid any masturbation or sexual activities or genital contact with these areas. Any piercing branding or knife play with unsterilised equipment : as few people have the right equipment to successfully ensure that needles etc are properly sterilised it is recommended that disposable scalpels, needles etc are used at all times. Tattooing \ decorative body piercing : ensure that needles are brand-new opened and inserted in front of you. Following the piercing / tattooing ensure that needles are snapped and disposed of in front of you. Shared equipment : avoid using anything that could have resulted in broken skin at clubs, play parties etc. Cleaning equipment : the HIV virus does not live for more than a few seconds in the air so as long as basic cleaning and hygiene is completed after every play session on privately used equipment there is no risk of infection the important factor is not to share equipment no matter how well you know the people involved. Never use oil based lube with condoms, it rots the latex making it more likely to split. Even if both partners are HIV positive precautions still need to be taken as there are different strains and cross contamination can occur lessening the chances of a good reaction to treatment and a shorter life span. To sterilise equipment at home : shop bought sterilising solutions are easily mishandled. Boiling is best but equipment must be boiled at a rolling boil for at least 20 and preferably 40 minutes. A final point. The only really safe way is for both partners to have an HIV test, but, to gain an accurate test, both partners must have taken part in any risky activity for at least 3 months prior to testing. Also never go to your GP or local hospital for testing, it will go on your health records and may stop your chances of getting a mortgage or insurance. Even if the test is negative the fact you have taken one is enough to put you in a high-risk category. Go to your local GUM (genito-urinary medicine) clinic. It is totally confidential and there is no need to give your real name.