Contrary to common wisdom, washing after sex does not prevent HIV. Rather, it increases the risk of infection. Although washing after sex is considered a good hygiene practice, experts recommend delaying the washing by 10 minutes. A study conducted among uncircumcised men in Africa revealed that men who washed immediately after sex were six times more likely to contract HIV than men who delayed washing.
Almost every condom manufacturer claims 97% protection against pregnancy; the same goes for HIV and other STD transmissions. Condoms offer the most convenient and effective way to prevent HIV transmission if used properly. Condoms may get ruptured due to friction during sex. So, always buy good-quality condoms to avoid exposure.
Unprotected sex or condom failure has consequences that may follow you around for years. If you are concerned about pregnancy, use emergency contraceptives within 72 hours to reduce your chances of conceiving. It is also recommended to get yourself tested for STIs so you can be prepared if the worse comes to worst.
Wondering how do you get an HIV? While there are 2-3% chances of contracting HIV from having sex with an infected person, sometimes, a single exposure is all it takes. Therefore, it is better to be safe than sorry. If you have been an unwitting participant, consider getting yourself tested for STIs after intercourse.
Antibiotics encourage the production of retrocyclins, which may inhibit HIV transmission; however, more research is needed to verify this claim. If you suspect HIV exposure, consider taking Postexposure Prophylaxis within three days to reduce the risk of transmission. Taking PEP is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of the virus after HIV exposure.
Using condoms during sex is one of the easiest ways to protect your partner from HIV transmission. For added peace of mind, have your partner take Postexposure Prophylaxis immediately after sex.
A person has a 2-3% chance of getting infected by an HIV-positive person per sex event. Once the person is infected, it may take months or even years to develop symptoms of AIDS. Therefore, it is recommended to use condoms during sex and have yourself tested if you suspect HIV exposure.
Here are the symptoms of HIV positive:
- Fever and muscle pains.
- Headache.
- Sore throat.
- Night sweats.
- Mouth sores, including yeast infection (thrush)
- Swollen lymph glands.
- Diarrhea.
Wondering how do people get aids? As discussed in a question above, in case of condom failure, a risk of HIV may crop up. Hence, in such cases, it???s recommended to get yourself tested asap.
