Safer Sex Resources

HIV Awareness

Understanding HIV:

• What is HIV?: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections.

• Transmission: HIV can be transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk.

• Progression to AIDS: Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which severely weakens the immune system and makes the body more vulnerable to infections and cancers.

Prevention:

• PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis): A daily pill that significantly reduces the risk of HIV infection.

• PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis): A treatment started within 72 hours after potential exposure to HIV to prevent infection.

• Condoms and Dental Dams: Consistent and correct use of condoms and dental dams can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission.

• Safe needle use: use only sterile drug injection equipment and water, and never share your equipment with others.

Importance of Testing and Treatment:

• Know Your Status: Regular HIV testing is crucial. Knowing your status helps you make informed decisions about your health and the health of your partners. Early detection can lead to timely treatment, which can greatly improve quality of life and health outcomes.

• U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable): If an HIV-positive person is on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and maintains an undetectable viral load, they cannot sexually transmit HIV to others. This concept is known as U=U, highlighting the importance of regular testing and adherence to treatment.

Understanding Consent

• Mutual Agreement: Consent must be mutual, enthusiastic, and can be withdrawn at any time.

• Communication: Discuss boundaries, desires, and limits with your partner(s) to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

• Healthy Relationships: Build relationships based on trust, respect, and open communication.

• Ongoing Process: Consent is not a one-time question but an ongoing process. Check in regularly with your partner(s) to ensure everyone is comfortable.

• Sober Consent: Make sure consent is given when all parties are sober and fully aware. Intoxication can impair the ability to give informed consent.

• Non-Coercion: Consent must be given freely without any pressure, manipulation, or coercion. Everyone involved should feel comfortable and free to make their own choices.

• Body Language: Pay attention to non-verbal cues and body language, as they can indicate whether someone is comfortable and consenting.

General STI Awareness

Common STIs:

• Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis: Bacterial infections that can be treated with antibiotics.

• HPV (Human Papillomavirus): A viral infection that can lead to genital warts and certain cancers.

• Herpes: A viral infection causing sores and blisters.

• Hepatitis B and C: Affects the liver and can lead to serious complications. Vaccination is available for Hepatitis B; both types can be managed with medication.

Prevention:

• Condoms: Use latex or polyurethane condoms for oral, vaginal, and anal sex.

• Dental Dams: Use these for oral sex on vulvas or anuses to reduce the risk of STDs.

• Lubrication: Use water-based or silicone-based lubricants to reduce friction and prevent tears, which can increase the risk of infection.

• Regular Testing: Get tested regularly for STDs to know your status and get timely treatment.

• Vaccinations: Vaccines are available for HPV and Hepatitis B, which can prevent these infections.

Importance of Regular Testing:

• Routine Checks: Regular testing ensures early detection and treatment of STDs, helping to maintain your health and prevent the spread to others.

• Anonymous Testing: Many clinics offer anonymous or confidential testing if privacy is a concern.

Safe Use of Toys

• Material Matters: Use toys made from non-porous materials like silicone, stainless steel, or glass, which are easier to clean.

• Cleanliness: Always clean your toys before and after use to prevent infections.

• Sharing: If sharing toys, use condoms on them and change the condom between users.

Pregnancy Considerations for Trans Individuals:

• Hormone Treatments: Testosterone can reduce fertility but doesn’t eliminate the possibility of pregnancy. Trans men who have sex with cis men or some trans women should still consider contraception if they don’t wish to become pregnant.

• Contraception: Explore options that suit your needs, such as condoms, IUDs, or hormonal birth control.