How Is HIV Transmitted & What You Can Do To Protect Yourself
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that affects millions of people around the world. At present, there is no known cure for HIV and thus it is often feared as one of the most lethal STDs in the history of mankind. The virus wears down the body’s immune system, making it more susceptible to everyday diseases like the common cold. However, medical technology has come a long way in allowing patients with HIV to live longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives. With constant use of the antiretroviral medications, patients’ immune systems will not weaken as quickly to the virus. There are also HIV clinics in Singapore to help patients get tested for the virus confidentially. However, the best way to ensure that you do not have HIV is to protect yourself from the potential transmission. This article will explain how HIV can be transmitted between sexual partners and how you can protect yourself from an HIV infection.
How is HIV transmitted?
HIV is transmitted only when a bodily fluid that is infected with the virus enters the patient’s bloodstream, often only through unprotected penetrative sex – that is, when infected seminal, vaginal or anal fluids enter the patient’s body. This does not mean that only those who are being penetrated, whether through vaginal or anal sex, are at risk. The ones who are penetrating can also be at risk as vaginal or anal fluids can enter the body through the tissues in the penis. As such, the most common form of HIV transmission is through unprotected penetrative sex. Transmission through oral sex is possible though that usually only happens if there is an open wound inside the mouth. Transmission of HIV through other methods are rarer and often more scenario-specific. For instance, HIV can be transmitted when unsterilised needles are used on patients or when drug users share needles. The Singaporean government has very strict healthcare laws to prevent accidental infections from happening within STD clinics in Singapore and other healthcare institutions. HIV can also be transmitted from a pregnant mother to her child. Knowing how HIV can be transmitted will help you be more conscious of the risks involved when engaging in any kind of sexual activity.
Ways to protect yourself against HIV
Precautionary measures should be taken whenever you are engaging in sexual activity so as to minimise the potential risk of HIV infections. Besides abstaining from sex completely, there is no hundred per cent protection against STDs. However, there are some things you can do to minimise the risks. One important thing is to use condoms whenever you have sex. Condoms provide a protective barrier that prevents the transferral of sexual fluids from one person to another. Using a condom correctly is also an important skill in this regard. Other precautions to take note of include not having sex when ill as the body’s immune system may be more susceptible to the virus and not having sex when intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
Conclusion
HIV is an STD that could affect you. If you think you may have contracted HIV from a recent sexual encounter, you should get yourself tested at an HIV clinic. Contact Elyon Clinic now at 6802 7208 to book an appointment.
