HIV AND WOMAN

HIV and women - safe sex
In Australia, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is most commonly spread through unprotected anal or vaginal intercourse with an infected person. Describing a couple as ‘serodiscordant’ means that one partner is HIV positive and the other is not. This can raise a number of issues, such as how to have sex safely. Finding out more about what is safe, talking to others with experience or talking with a counsellor may be helpful. This article offers general information, but also talk with your doctor or AIDS organisation.Safe sex suggestionsHIV is transmitted by body fluids including blood, ejaculate (cum), pre-ejaculate (pre-cum), female genital fluids (both vaginal and cervical fluid) and breast milk. The way the virus gains entry to another person may be directly across the mucosa (the lining of the vagina or bowel) or into the bloodstream. HIV can also pass from mother to baby during pregnancy or birth, or via breast milk.It is important to prevent the transfer of these body fluids, whether the woman or her partner is HIV positive. Be guided by your doctor or health worker, but safe sex suggestions include:
Kissing, cuddling, masturbation, mutual masturbation, massage, and ejaculating or urinating on unbroken skin are considered safe activities.
Always wear a condom and use a water based lubricant when having vaginal or anal sex.
The woman may prefer to wear a female condom that is inserted into the vagina.
Pre-ejaculate (pre-cum) of an HIV positive man may transmit the virus, so don’t rely on the withdrawal method.
Oral sex with either a man or woman is considered a ‘low risk’ activity for transmission of HIV. However the risk increases when people have cuts or sores in their mouth or on their lips, or have recently brushed their teeth and gums or flossed their teeth. For extra safety, people may choose to use a condom during oral sex performed on the man, or a dental dam or similar protection (such as clear plastic cling wrap – but not the ‘microwave safe’ variety which has tiny holes in it) during oral sex performed on the woman.
Avoid penetration of the vagina or anus with finger or fist if there are abrasions on the hand or arm – to be sure, wear a latex glove and use lots of water based lubricant.
Don’t share penetrative sex toys such as dildos – consider having a separate collection for each partner, covering them with a new condom each time they are used, or washing them thoroughly in warm soapy water between partners.
Lesbian serodiscordant couples should also follow these safer sex suggestions.