“Safer sex” is a term that can mean many things:
- Avoid exchange of bodily fluids.
- Use of prophylactics: such as male or female condoms.
- Use of HIV drugs to prevent transmission of the virus.
- Limit the number of sexual partners.
- Limit alcohol and drug use (which can affect judgment).
In fact, safer sex often involves a combination of these approaches.
The only way to know for sure if you are HIV positive, even after an activity considered to have a very low risk of transmission, is to get tested. If you've contracted another sexually transmitted infection, it's also a good idea to get tested for HIV.
In the Canary Islands, the number of new HIV infections per year ranges between 200 and 250 (data updated to: [01/12/2021]). In 2020, 179 new infections were diagnosed, which, based on estimated data due to the COVID pandemic, represents a rate of 8,23 per 100.000 inhabitants. The 1st. December of each year is celebrated on World Day of the Fight Against AIDS, for this reason CanaryDoctor We remind our population of the current alternatives to avoid contagion of the virus and enjoy safer sex:
male condoms
Several studies have shown that male condoms made of latex or polyurethane are effective barriers against HIV. The theory behind condom use is clear: they cover the penis and provide an effective barrier against exposure to secretions, such as semen and vaginal fluids, thus blocking the sexual transmission of HIV.
Various laboratory studies have been conducted to support this theory. The studies consisted of placing an HIV solution inside the condoms, with no leakage of HIV through latex or polyurethane condoms. Similar studies have also shown that these types of condoms prevent other common sexually transmitted viral infections, such as the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV).
Several epidemiological studies, studies conducted in real-life settings where one partner is living with HIV and the other is not, have shown that condoms provide a high degree of protection against HIV. The key to effective protection is the consistent and correct use of condoms.
female condoms
The female condom is a polyurethane pouch with flexible polyurethane rings at each end. It is inserted deep into the vagina, like a diaphragm. The ring at the open end remains outside the vulva (vaginal opening). If inserted correctly, it lines the vagina and cervix, helping to prevent pregnancy along with HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Several studies have indicated that female condoms are not as effective as male condoms, largely due to the difficulty of using them correctly.
Lubricants
Only silicone and water-based lubricants should be used with latex condoms. Oil-based lubricants, including hand or body lotions, baby oil, vegetable oil or shortening, massage oil, mineral oil, or petroleum jelly, are not recommended. Oil-based lubricants can damage latex and make latex condoms break more easily.
Some pre-lubricated condoms and lubricants that are sold separately contain a chemical called nonoxynol-9. While nonoxynol-9 has been shown to kill sperm (and potentially reduce the risk of pregnancy) and several sexually transmitted infections, some men and women are allergic to this chemical. This can cause irritation inside the vagina and anus, which can increase the risk of HIV transmission if the condom breaks.
Antiretroviral (ARV) therapy
HIV drugs can also be used to prevent sexual transmission of the virus. Pre-exposure prophylaxis is an HIV prevention tool in which an HIV-negative person takes antiretroviral drugs to reduce the risk of contracting HIV.
Post-exposure prophylaxis consists of taking a short course of ARV drugs, usually for one month, to prevent HIV transmission after a high-risk exposure. Treatment as prevention refers to taking antiretrovirals to prevent sexual transmission. People living with HIV and maintaining an undetectable viral load are not at risk of sexually transmitting the virus, a concept known as Undetectable equals untransmittable.
From CanaryDoctor and in this month of December we want to emphasize the importance of maintaining relationships in a conscious and safe way. If you need help managing your health, contact one of the specialists in our medical directory. You will be in the best hands!