When used consistently and correctly the condom prevents the transmission of most sexually transmitted infections (including HIV).

For vaginal (and anal) intercourse condoms need to be used with lube (water-based or silicone). Lube reduces friction and prevents the condom from breaking – and makes the experience more pleasurable for both people.

These guidelines are based on extensive, international research.  Low risk means there is a theoretical risk but very few cases have been documented where transmission has occurred without other risk factors.

Kissing

No risk for HIV infection unless there is blood present.  Even then the risk is very low.

Oral sex

Low risk for HIV infection unless there is significant broken skin or gum disease present in your mouth.  Like pre-ejaculatory fluid and semen, vaginal fluids can contain HIV but in moderate amounts. Exposure to menstrual blood, however, is high risk and a dental dam (a small sheet or latex) should be used as barrier.

Vaginal Intercourse

Without condoms, this a high risk activity for both the man and woman. HIV in semen can enter the bloodstream through cells lining the vaginal walls, whereas HIV in vaginal fluids can enter a man’s body through the end of his penis or the inner folds of his foreskin.

Anal Intercourse

Without condoms, this extremely high risk activity for both men (insertive and receptive) and women (receptive). HIV in semen can enter the bloodstream by being absorbed into the body. The inside of the anus acts as a sponge, absorbing nutrients from food passing through the body. Any that goes in is also absorbed which is why medicines are sometimes administered that way. There is more HIV in the mucous that lines the rectum that in any other body fluid. It can enter a man’s body through the end of his penis or the inner folds of his foreskin.

Mothers and children

Transmission from an HIV positive mother to her child during pregnancy, birth, or later as a result of breastfeeding is known as vertical transmission.  However, with planning from healthcare professionals, people who are HIV positive are able to conceive, deliver and care for healthy HIV negative children.  Talk to someone in your nearest NZAF Centre if you’re concerned about getting pregnant or issues around motherhood.

Special consideration for HIV positive people

Super infection

Even if both people are HIV positive, it’s important that you and your partner still use condoms and lube every time you have sex; even though both people are already HIV positive, there is a risk of super infection, where a person can become infected with more than one strain of the HIV virus.  Super infections tend to be more virulent, and are often are more drug resistant.

Serodiscordant couples

Serodiscordant couples can have a healthy and enjoyable sex life, as long as they use condoms consistently every time they have sex.  Condoms are the best way to protect you and your partner against the HIV virus, as they prevent the transmission of the HIV virus.  If you have any concerns or seek any advice, get in contact with your nearest NZAF Centre.  Our therapeutic staff specialise in working with serodiscordant couples.