The surest way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted diseases is to abstain from sexual intercourse, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and known to be uninfected.

For persons whose sexual behaviors place them at risk for HIV and STDs, correct and consistent use of the male latex condom can reduce the risk of transmission. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), as well as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis – the discharge diseases – are transmitted when infected semen or vaginal fluids contact mucosal surfaces (e.g., the male urethra, the vagina or cervix). Latex condoms cover the penis and provide an effective barrier to exposure to secretions such as semen and vaginal fluids, blocking the pathway of sexual transmission of HIV infection.

However, no protective method is 100 percent effective, and condom use cannot guarantee absolute protection against any STD. Furthermore, condoms lubricated with spermicides are no more effective than other lubricated condoms in protecting against the transmission of HIV and other STDs.

In order to achieve the protective effect of condoms, they must be used correctly and consistently. Incorrect use can lead to condom slippage or breakage, thus diminishing their protective effect. Inconsistent use, e.g., failure to use condoms with every act of intercourse, can lead to the transmission of HIV and other STDs, because transmission can occur with a single act of intercourse.

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People can get infected with HIV if they share needles and/or syringes with someone who is infected. Therefore, persons should refrain from such practices.

Less commonly, people may be infected through blood transfusions, so persons should make sure that the blood they are given had been tested for HIV, and for other infections.

HIV-infected women may transmit HIV to their babies before or during birth or through breast-feeding after birth. However, this can be prevented. There is a special program called PMTCT which means Prevention of Mother- To- Child Transmission. Therefore, it is very important for HIV– positive pregnant women to get medical care and be a part of the PMTCT program.

Health care professionals (doctors, nurses, lab technicians) can prevent being infected with HIV by always using protective devices, such as latex gloves and eye shields to avoid coming to direct contact with body fluids, such as blood.