|
Is there
a connection between HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases?
Yes. Having a sexually transmitted
disease (STD) can increase a person's risk of becoming infected
with HIV, whether the STD causes open sores or breaks in the
skin (e.g., syphilis, herpes, chancroid) or does not cause breaks
in the skin (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea).
If the STD infection causes
irritation of the skin, breaks or sores may make it easier for
HIV to enter the body during sexual contact. Even when the STD
causes no breaks or open sores, the infection can stimulate an
immune response in the genital area that can make HIV transmission
more likely.
In addition, if an HIV-infected
person also is infected with another STD, that person is three
to five times more likely than other HIV-infected persons to
transmit HIV through sexual contact.
Not having (abstaining from)
sexual intercourse is the most effective way to avoid STDs, including
HIV. For those who choose to be sexually active, the following
HIV prevention activities are highly effective:
- Engaging in sex that does
not involve vaginal, anal, or oral sex
- Having intercourse with
only one uninfected partner
- Using latex condoms every
time you have sex
For more information on
latex condoms, the female condom, and plastic (polyurethane)
condoms, see "Facts about Condoms and Their Use in Preventing HIV
Infection."
If you have additional questions
or are concerned about personal behaviors that may have put you
at risk, call the CDC National AIDS Hotline at 1-800-342-2437
(English), 1-800-344-7432 (Español), or 1-800-243-7889
(TTY). |
