WHAT IF BOTH PEOPLE ARE ALREADY INFECTED?

WHAT IF BOTH PEOPLE ARE ALREADY INFECTED?

Some people who are HIV-infected don’t see the need to follow safer sex guidelines when they are sexual with other infected people. However, it still makes sense to “play safe”. If you don’t, you could be exposed to other sexually transmitted infections such as herpes or syphilis. If you already have HIV, these diseases can be more serious.

Also, you might get “re-infected” with a different strain of HIV. This new version of HIV might not be controlled by the medications you are taking. It might also be resistant to other antiretroviral drugs. There is no way of knowing how risky it is for two HIV-positive people to have unsafe sex. Following the guidelines for safer sex will reduce the risk.

KNOW WHAT YOU’RE DOING

Using alcohol or drugs before or during sex greatly increases the chances that you will not follow safer sex guidelines. Be very careful if you have used any alcohol or drugs.

SET YOUR LIMITS

Decide how much risk you are willing to take. Know how much protection you want to use during different kinds of sexual activities. Before you have sex,

• think about safer sex
• set your limits
• get a supply of lubricant and condoms or other barriers, and be sure they are easy to find when you need them
• talk to your partners so they know your limits.

Stick to your limits. Don’t let alcohol or drugs or an attractive partner make you forget to protect yourself.

THE BOTTOM LINE

HIV infection can occur during sexual activity. Sex is safe only if there is no HIV, no blood or sexual fluids, or no way for HIV to get into the body.

You can reduce the risk of infection if you avoid unsafe activities or if you use barriers like condoms. Decide on your limits and stick to them.