How can HIV infection be prevented?

	Intercourse (vagina/penis sex, anus/penis sex) Latex condom or a female condom A water based lubricant to reduce tiny rips and tears in the vagina or anus during sex If you can't use a condom, these may help reduce your risks: Spermicides (i.e., nonoxynol-9) to kill some sperm and STD germs in vagina/penis sex, but never use during anal sex since it will irritate the anus Diaphragms or cervical caps cover the cervix from infection, but do not protect the vagina from HIV or STD's.
	Oral Sex Oral sex is especially risky when menstrual When giving oral sex to a man, he can wear unlubricated or flavored latex condom When receiving oral sex, your partner can use a latex barrier (dental dam or condom cut open) or non-microwavable plastic wrap between the mouth and the vagina
	Fingering & Fisting When inserting fingers into the vagina or anus, HIV can enter the bloodstream through open cuts or sores on the hand A latex glove can be worn during fisting or fingering. Water-based lubricants can help reduce scratches in the vagina and anus
	Sex Toys HIV can be passed by sharing sex toys Use a latex condom on the toy and clean with one part bleach to ten parts soapy water between uses
	Vagina to vagina rubbing (tribadism) Sometimes rubbing vaginas can cause tiny rips in the vagina Use a latex barrier (dental dam or condom cut open) or non-microwavable plastic between vaginas

Sharing needles Needles, syringes and other paraphernalia can become contaminated by the infected blood of another user Try not to share needles. If you do share, always clean the needle and other equipment with bleach between users Many communities have free needle exchange programs Please dispose of your needles properly. Many drug stores now have contaminated waste disposal areas for needles

In addition, alcohol and other drug use are factors that can contribute to the risk of HIV transmission because they impair judgment needed to practice safer sex. Furthermore, alcohol and other drug use has shown to supress the immune system, weakening the body's ability to fight disease.