Why does my doctor want to discuss HIV prevention with me?
It is important that you understand how HIV is transmitted so that you can prevent transmitting HIV to others. Every time you visit your doctor, discuss any high-risk behaviors such as unprotected sex and needle sharing. Then you and your doctor can find ways to prevent transmission.
Successful HIV treatment can lower the viral load which may reduce the chance of HIV transmission. But there are other factors that influence sexual transmission of HIV, such as the following:
- presence of other sexually transmitted infections,
- genital irritation,
- menstruation,
- lack of circumcision in men,
- taking birth control pills,
- hormone imbalances, and
- vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
Successful treatment does not prevent transmission. You should always use prevention strategies, such as condoms, safer sex practices and clean needles.
No Hiv, No Aids on February 17th 2007