There is no cure for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) which causes AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) -- the deadly disease which destroys the body's immune system leaving it unable to fight off infections.. There is no cure for AIDS either. Prevention of HIV infection is thus all important, given the fact that there is no vaccination for the virus nor a cure for the disease. You can reduce your risk of either getting or giving HIV, but this involves not only learning the facts about transmission, but also about having the willingness to change certain behaviors that may put you directly in the virus' path.

There is only one way that HIV transmission can occur and that is by an exchange of body fluids so the focus of preventing HIV is extremely fundamental. The primary ways HIV is spread are:

HIV is not spread through the air or by casual contact such as dry kissing or shaking hands. Nor is it spread through sharing food with HIV-infected people. It is not spread by contact with telephones or spread via use of public restrooms. And it is not transmitted by vectors such as flies and mosquitoes, or by playing contact sports or by donating blood.

The most common form of HIV transmission is through having unprotected anal sex, a practice both gays and straights engage in. Having unprotected vaginal sex is considered quite risky as well. There are still differing opinions about transmission of HIV during oral sex. It is thought not be as easily spread orally as it is by having unprotected anal or vaginal intercourse, but it still offers a possible route of transmission. So remember the word OVA -- oral/vaginal/anal.

Methods of prevention can be easily remembered by the letters A, B and C. A is for Abstinence. B is for barrier -- using a latex Condom that contains the spermicidal nonoxynol-9 as a lubricant or a dental dam during cunnilingus. C is for a committed (sexually monogamous) relationship with someone who is HIV negative.

Of course the most effective way to prevent HIV transmission is to abstain from having sex altogether. But for many this is not a realistic option. Before initiating sex with anyone you should make arrangements with your health care provider to test both you and your prospective partner for HIV infection as well as other STDs. This applies to everyone, even if you or your partner sincerely believe you have not been at risk for contracting the virus or have had past HIV tests with negative results. If either you or your partner has been sexually active since the last time you were tested, you are both at risk for a change in your negative status. Couples who have been in a committed relationship may wish to discuss routine HIV testing with their health care provider.

If you decide to have sex with a person whose HIV status is unknown or you feel they may not have been honest about disclosing their true status or if you decide to have sexual intercourse or penetration with a person who is HIV positive, condoms must be used to reduce the risk of infection. Some people prefer not to use condoms because they feel it decreases their pleasure during sex. Others would be horrified to think of engaging in penetration without using one. Sex needs to be negotiated prior to its initiation with "safe rules" accepted and understood by both partners. A frank and honest discussion with your partner about past and current sexual behaviors will probably bring a higher comfort level than if you ask no questions; it could also lead to making more informed, careful choices that could literally save your life.