What are the specific prevention strategies to avoid HIV?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventive measure that individuals at risk of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) undertake to avoid contracting the virus through sexual intercourse or injection drug use. PrEP effectively inhibits HIV from establishing and spreading within the body. Presently, there are two FDA or Food and Drug Administration-approved daily oral medications and a long-acting injectable option for PrEP.

PrEP could be beneficial if you have tested negative for HIV and meet any of the following criteria:

1. Engaged in anal or vaginal intercourse within the last six months, especially with a partner known to have HIV or with inconsistent condom usage, or have recently been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

2. Engage in injection drug use and share needles or other equipment with a partner known to have HIV.

3. Previously prescribed post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) due to continued risky behavior or multiple PEP courses.

For the prevention of HIV, I suggest the following

Practices to safeguard against HIV transmission:

1. Practice safe sex by consistently and correctly using condoms during sexual intercourse.

2. Avoid injecting drugs. If unavoidable, ensure the use of sterile injection equipment and never share it with others.

3. Consider PrEP if you are HIV-negative but at risk. Consult your healthcare provider about daily oral medication or a bi-monthly injectable option.

4. If HIV positive, adhere to antiretroviral therapy (ART) as directed by your healthcare provider. ART lowers HIV levels in the blood to an undetectable level, preventing transmission to sexual partners.

Prevent perinatal transmission:

1. If you are HIV positive, taking prescribed HIV medication during pregnancy and childbirth reduces the risk of transmitting the virus to your baby to less than one percent.

2. For HIV-positive partners considering pregnancy, discuss PrEP with your doctor to safeguard against HIV transmission to yourself and your baby during conception, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

I hope this helps.

Please revert to assist you further.

Thank you.