HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a serious but manageable condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections and diseases. Without treatment, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), a more severe stage of the virus that leaves the body vulnerable to life-threatening illnesses.
If you are wondering how to prevent HIV, you’re in the right place. Below, we’ll discuss key prevention tips as well as ways to reduce the risk of transmitting it to others.
Protecting Yourself From HIV
HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles or syringes, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. For these reasons, anyone can contract the virus — that is, unless they take necessary steps to protect themselves.
Here’s how you can prevent HIV infection:
Practice Safe Sex
Using condoms consistently and correctly during oral, anal, and vaginal sex significantly reduces the chances of contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This is because the condoms act as a barrier, preventing direct contact with bodily fluids that can carry the virus.
Take Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
PrEP is a medication that significantly reduces the risk of HIV infection for individuals who may be at higher risk, such as those with an HIV-positive partner or those who have multiple sexual partners. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is more than 99% effective in preventing HIV from sexual transmission. If you believe PrEP may be right for you, speak with a healthcare provider at Spectrum Health Services for the guidance and support you need to get started.
Do Not Share Needles or Syringes
People who inject drugs should always use sterile needles and never share equipment. Many communities offer needle exchange programs and other harm reduction services that provide clean supplies to reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
Get Tested for HIV
Knowing your HIV status allows you to take necessary precautions and seek treatment if needed. The sooner HIV is detected, the more effectively it can be managed. Spectrum Health Services offers confidential HIV testing and treatment, ensuring you have the resources needed to protect your health and the health of your partners.
Preventing the Transmission of HIV
If you are living with HIV, there are several steps you can take to prevent transmitting the virus to others.
Take Medications as Prescribed
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) helps lower the amount of HIV in the body, which is known as your viral load. When you take the medication consistently and as prescribed, your viral load becomes undetectable. What does this mean? It means that the virus is now untransmittable (you cannot pass the virus to a sexual partner). This concept is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable), and it has been a game-changer in HIV prevention.
Use Condoms
Using condoms during sexual activity remains an important protective measure, even if you are on treatment. While ART significantly reduces the risk of transmission, condoms offer extra security against other STIs.
Take Extra Steps to Prevent Perinatal Transmission of HIV
For pregnant individuals living with HIV, taking ART during pregnancy and delivery and avoiding breastfeeding can significantly reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission.
Have You Recently Been Exposed to HIV? Ask Your Doctor About PEP
For those who may have been recently exposed to HIV, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can be taken within 72 hours of exposure to help prevent infection. PEP is a short-term course of medication that can be highly effective when taken promptly and as directed. It should not be used on a routine basis, only in emergency situations. If you believe you have been exposed to HIV, contact a healthcare provider immediately to discuss whether PEP is right for you.
Contact Spectrum Health Services for HIV Prevention & Treatment
Do you have further questions about how to prevent HIV or need information on STDs? Spectrum Health Services is here to help. We provide comprehensive healthcare services, including PrEP and PEP, to help protect you and your loved ones. Schedule an appointment with our team to learn more about your options and take charge of your health.