HIV/AIDS
HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It weakens a person’s immune system by destroying important cells that fight disease and infection. There is currently no effective cure for HIV. But with proper medical care, HIV can be controlled. If you already have an STI, you have an increased chance of getting HIV or give it to someone else.
Symptoms
People who get syphilis, gonorrhea, or herpes in the United States often also have HIV or are more likely to get HIV in the future. If you have an STI, you are more likely to get HIV than someone who doesn't have an STI. This is because the same actions and situations that can make you more likely to get an STI can also make you more likely to get HIV. A sore or break in the skin from an STI could also make it easier for HIV to get into your body. Even if you don't feel sick, you should get tested for STIs and HIV regularly if you are sexually active.
How do you get it?
Having anal, vaginal, or oral sex without a condom; having more than one sex partner; having sex with people you don't know; or having sex while on drugs or alcohol can lower your inhibitions and make you more willing to take sexual risks. You can also be at risk for contracting HIV if injecting drugs and sharing the needle with someone who is living with HIV.
How do you protect yourself?
STIs can only be completely avoided by not having vaginal, oral, or anal sex. If you are sexually active, you can lower your chances of getting STIs and HIV by doing the following:
Choose safer ways to have sex. Always and correctly use a new condom for every act of vaginal, oral, and anal sex, from start to end.
Lessen the number of people with whom you have sex;
Use of drugs and drink before and during sex should be limited or stopped; use a sterile needle if you inject drugs;
Talk to your doctor in an open and honest way and ask if you should get tested for STDs and HIV;
Talk to your doctor to find out if either pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) or post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a good way to keep from getting HIV.
For additional information, visit cdc.gov
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