In 1985, 7% of all AIDS patients were women

In 1985, 7% of all AIDS patients were women. In 1996 that figure was almost three times as high. Some studies show that African American and Hispanic women make up 80% of those women living with AIDS. In recent years, the incidence of heterosexual transmission of HIV in white women is increasing at a dramatic pace.
STD's such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and herpes continue at an alarming rate. How can women, both HIV positive and negative protect themselves from these health risks? Here are some suggestions.Prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases is paramount to those who want to stay healthy, even those already infected with HIV. The need for protection does not cease after one becomes HIV infected. Reinfection through unprotected sexual encounters makes treatment of existing HIV disease all the more difficult. In addition becoming infected with other STD's such as syphilis or gonorrhea is detrimental to the health of anyone, especially those living with HIV. Here are some ways women can stay safe from contracting STD's through sexual encounters.

The Signs & Symptoms of STDs

Abstinence
Abstinence, or the voluntary choice to refrain from sexual activity is the only 100% effective way to prevent HIV and STD transmission. Non-coital forms of sexual intimacy range from holding hands, hugging, kissing, and dancing to mutual masturbation, petting, and the use of stimulating devices such as vibrators. While abstinence is an effective means of safer sex, it may be difficult to maintain commitment.

Condoms
Latex condoms provide the most effective means of preventing HIV and STD transmission through sexual encounters. But to be effective, condoms must be used correctly. An erect penis can leak seminal fluid prior to ejaculation. This fluid can contain infectious organisms that have the ability to cause infection in others. For this reason, condoms must be applied to the penis prior to any oral, vaginal, or anal contact is made. In addition, condoms can break, allowing seminal fluids to leak. To reduce the possibility of this occurring, a water based lubricant must be used to decrease friction during intercourse.

How to Use a Condom

Oil based lubricants such as baby oil, Vaseline, or certain lotions can weaken a condom and should never be used. Please note, sheepskin condoms do not provide an effective barrier to HIV and other STD's.

Female Condom
While data on the effectiveness of the female condom is limited it is a good alternative for a woman whose partner is reluctant to wear a condom or is unable due to a latex allergy. Female condoms allow a woman to assume control over safer sex. Slipping inside the vagina, the female condom provides a lubricated barrier that is stronger than latex. It can be inserted up to eight hours prior to intercourse, providing for the spontaneity that often is lost with latex condoms.

How to Use a Female Condom

Dental Dams
Dental dams are rectangular squares of latex that are used during oral sex, both oral-vaginal and oral-anal. During sex, latex dams are stretched across your partner's genitals to prevent your tongue from touching your partner's bodily secretions. They are effective method of disease prevention, but can be difficult to hold in place. A dab of water soluble lubricant placed on the genital side of the dam can help hold it in place.

Make a Dental Dam

As we gain an understanding of the importance of safer sex, women now are taking a more active role choosing and insisting upon safer sex in their relationships. Staying healthy and living life to its fullest depends on the proper and consistent use of protection. Being safe does not mean losing intimacy. Being safe means staying alive.