Table of contents:
- Share your sex history
- Always use protection
- Use lubricant
- Use condoms properly
- Do the tests together regularly
Practicing safe sex is very important in any relationship, especially among people who have HIV, because sexual activity is one of the main reasons for spreading HIV. So, if your wife or husband is HIV positive, before having sex, make sure that you are clear about how to practice safe sex.
Share your sex history
Some people find it very difficult to talk about their illness with their partner. However, it is very important for both of you to share with each other the history of each other's sex. You should make sure that your sex partner has never had sex with anyone who has HIV. You can even ask him to show you the test results if you have any doubts that your sex partner has HIV.
Also, you have to be honest if you have HIV with your sex partners. This will help both of you to have safe sex.
ALSO READ: Can You Get HIV Through Oral Sex?
Always use protection
Sex without a condom should only be practiced if you are in a reliably monogamous relationship, in which neither of you are infected with HIV or any other sexually transmitted disease. In addition, condoms are an important part of HIV prevention. Protected sex is a very good way to protect you and your partner if one of you has HIV infection. Of course, it is very easy to say, "One time not using a condom is probably fine," but it only takes that one chance to become infected.
Contraceptive options that can be used include:
- Male condom
- Female condom
- Dental dam (can be used for sex between women, men-women, and men-men)
Use lubricant
Lubricants can really help a lot even though they don't look like they can prevent HIV. When you use a condom, you are putting yourself at serious risk if the condom breaks. The best way to prevent condom breakage is to reduce the pressure on the condom, using a lubricant.
Always use a water-based lubricant, as other lubricants can damage the latex rubber of the condom and put you at risk. Lubricants are especially important in anal intercourse because they not only protect your body from tearing but also protect the condom, as anal intercourse puts more pressure on the condom than vaginal intercourse.
ALSO READ: 5 Ingredients for Sex Lubricants that Harm the Vagina
Use condoms properly
Condoms can seem complicated, but they are actually very easy to learn how to use them properly. Correct use of condoms is very important to prevent HIV infection because a condom that is damaged or used incorrectly is like not using a condom at all. Store your condom properly, keep it out of direct sunlight, in a cool and dry place. Don't forget the expiration date (note that the words "MFG" mean the date of production). Open the package carefully by hand and not with your teeth.
ALSO READ: 13 Common Mistakes When Using Condoms
Do the tests together regularly
Getting tested regularly can help you and your partner stay safe. Protecting each other if you are at risk is something good partners do. Since some partners can lie that they have been tested or lie about the results of the test, it is best to do the test together.
Even though it is very difficult to live and have sex with someone who has HIV, if you know the right way to live it, your life will still go on normally. Being next to someone who has HIV can be the most influential experience in your life. Don't give up! Because maybe you are someone's reason to maintain their meaningful life.
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