TRIP

HIV and gay men - safe sex

Better Health Channel (Australia), 2004

In Australia, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is most commonly spread through unprotected anal or vaginal intercourse with an infected person.
Gay HIV positive men with HIV negative partners can still enjoy physically intimate relationships if they follow safe sex practices.
It is important to remember that the virus is transmitted by bodily fluids – for men this includes, blood, ejaculate and pre-ejaculate – entering the bloodstream.
Remember that the risk goes both ways – for example, it is commonly believed that only the partner who is penetrated (the 'bottom') is at risk, but the HIV virus can be transmitted to the partner who penetrates (the 'top') via small cuts and abrasions on his penis.
Unsafe sexual activities include: Unprotected anal sex, since the virus can enter the bloodstream via mucus membranes or small cuts or abrasions.
Sexual activities that are considered safe include: Kissing Cuddling Stroking and massage Masturbation Mutual masturbation Ejaculating on unbroken skin Urinating on unbroken skin Protected anal intercourse (using condoms).
Some suggestions for safe sex, including when to avoid some practices: Anal sex – use condoms and use plenty of water based lubricant.
Oral sex – there are a small number of recorded cases of people getting HIV from performing oral sex and taking ejaculate into their mouth.
In almost all of these cases, the person had herpes sores, wounds, cuts or infections in their mouth.
However, to be sure of being safe, the HIV positive partner shouldn't ejaculate into their partner's mouth.
The HIV negative partner should avoid performing oral sex if they have cuts or sores in their mouth, a throat infection, have recently undergone dental work, or have just brushed or flossed their teeth.