How can I reduce my chances of contracting the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS?
Since women constitute the most rapidly growing segment of the HIV-infected population in the United States, AIDS prevention is particularly important for womens health. HIV is transmitted through bodily secretions, like blood and semen. Using injection drugs, having unprotected sex with someone who has used injection drugs, having unprotected sex with a man who has had sex with another man, and having multiple sex partners all increase the chances of acquiring HIV. According to the FDA, the best way to protect yourself against HIV is abstinence from sexual intercourse and illegal drug use. If you have intercourse, be sure it is with one uninfected partner or that you properly use barrier methods such as condoms and dental dams.
