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HIV and Bareback Sex.
HIV Basics.
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, a virus that can weaken a persons immune system, the body's built-in defense against disease and illness.
It is possible to have HIV without even knowing which is why it is so important to get tested on a regular basis, especially if you enjoy having bareback sex.
While there is no current vaccine to prevent HIV, there are treatments for the virus that, with proper care, allow for people that have HIV to have a long, healthy life while still enabling them to enjoy a full and active sex life while not passing the HIV virus onto their sexual partners.
HIV is transmitted to another person through five types of bodily fluid, there are blood, semen (including pre-cum), rectal fluids, vaginal fluids and breast milk.
HIV is passed when one of these fluids from an individual that have HIV gets into the bloodstream of another person, through broken skin, the opening of the penis or the wet linings of the body, such as the vagina, rectum or foreskin.
HIV and Bareback Sex.
While bareback sex is considered to be a high-risk activity for transmitting HIV, there are several ways that you can protect yourself and your sexual partners that can reduce the risk of HIV transmission, these are as follows:
Use Condoms & Lube.
By using a condom each and every time you have sexual intercourse, you reduce the possibility of HIV transmission, in addition to the transmission of other sexually transmitted illnesses, such a Chlamydia, HPV and gonorrhea.
HIV Treatment.
If you currently have HIV but are not on a HIV treatment, discuss starting a treatment with your medical professional or doctor. HIV medications can protect your health and reduce the risk of HIV transmission to zero.
PrEP.
If you are HIV negative but at a higher risk for HIV because you practice bareback sex, your doctor will be able to prescribe a course of PrEP. These medications
PEP.
If you think you may have been exposed to HIV and are currently HIV negative, you can also take PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). PEP medications should be started as soon as possible after exposure (within 72 hours) and be taken for 28 days after exposure.
Not Sharing Sex Toys.
By avoiding the sharing of sex toys such as dildos, vibrators, cock rings and the like in addition to cleaning them correctly after use, the risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection is significantly reduced.
Choose Alternate Sex Options.
Instead of practicing bareback sex, opt to try forms of sexual activities such as oral sex, masturbation and other forms of sexual stimulation that pose no risk.
Individuals that practice bareback sex may not know if they have HIV because it is virus that does not show any noticeable signs or symptoms. The only true way to know is to get tested for HIV on a regular basis (every 3 months for individuals that enjoy bareback sex) and every 6-12 months for others.
Bareback Sex Tips.
Try to Avoid Using Poppers During Bareback Sex.
Poppers (although exciting to use for many during bareback sex) dilate a person’s blood vessels in the rectum, this in turn increases blood exposure during anal sex, especially during ‘rough’ sex or when practicing ‘fisting’ followed by bareback intercourse.