There are basically three methods you can use to prevent sexually contracting HIV.

Abstinence

This is logically the soundest method of prevention. It means that you do not engage in any sexual activity, particularly penetrative sex. You can’t contract HIV through sex if you’re not having it, right? Since our bodies and our minds are instinctively tuned to having sex – without which you’d most likely not be here in the first place – abstinence can be hard for a lot of young people. One thing you should consider is that abstinence doesn’t always equate to virginity – so if you are already having sex, nothing is stopping you from deciding to abstain until you are better prepared.

Being Faithful

If it is that you find yourself in a sexual relationship, try to make sure that once you decide to continue – it’s going to be one on one. The more people you have sex with, the greater chance you have of contracting HIV. Outside of the health factor, committed relationships – in which both partners have equal input in decision making – are far better for preparing you for life ahead than just having one fling after another. You learn not only to respect yourself but other people as well.

Condoms – specifically, latex condoms

These are the most effective way of preventing the Human Immunodeficiency Virus from passing from one person to another. While most people know about the male condom, there’s also a female condom as well. Teens should note that using condoms isn’t a licence to go out and have sex with a lot of people and that being in a committed relationship doesn’t mean that you should not use condoms. HIV/AIDS isn’t the only downside of unprotected sex.