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Prevention Information
Today, over 20 years after the first diagnosed
case of HIV infection, the most effective means of prevention remains the
same: Abstinence from sex and IV drug use. People who
chose to be sexually active and/or choose to use IV drugs, the use of
condoms and sterile/clean IV equipment (works) are proven methods to help
reduce the risk of becoming infected with HIV.
Condom Use
The condom is available in two types: male and
female. Male condoms, made out of polyurethane or latex, are readily
available and come in a variety of shapes and colors. Most have a reservoir
tip but some have a plain tip with a variety of textures which can increase
sensation for both partners. The female condom was made available in 1992. It
is a polyurethane pouch which is worn by a woman during sex. It completely
lines the vagina and it helps to prevent STDs, including HIV, and also
pregnancy. At each end of the condom there is a flexible ring. The closed
end of the pouch is inserted into the vagina and secures the condom in
place. The ring at the open end stays outside at the entrance of the vagina.
This ring also serves as a guide during penetration and stops the pouch from
bunching up inside the vagina. Like the male condom a lubricant lines the
inside the condom. THE FEMALE CONDOM
SHOULD NOT BE USED AT THE SAME TIME AS A LATEX MALE CONDOM. |
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In this Section
Condom Use
Mother to Child HIV Transmission Health Alert
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For those who choose to inject drugs (both legal
and illegal), the most effective, and proven, way to reduce risk of HIV
infection is to always use clean sterile equipment. Ideally, injecting
equipment should never be shared. However, if sharing is the only available
option then the equipment must be sterilized after each use and before
passing the works to the next user. Sterilizing the equipment is simple and
inexpensive: first flush the syringe with clean water at least three (3)
times, then flush with full strength bleach at least three (3) times, and
finally flush out the bleach with clean clear water at least three (3) times
or until all traces of the bleach is gone. New sterile syringes are now
available through New York State's Expanded Syringe Access
Demonstration Program (ESAP). Pharmacies registered in this program
may sell or furnish up to 10 syringes at a time to adults, 18 years or
older, without a prescription. Also under this program, health care
facilities and health care providers (doctors and others who can prescribe
syringes) may also furnish syringes.
To find ESAP and disposal sites,
and syringe exchange programs, call the New York State Department of Health
HIV/AIDS Hot lines:
English: 1-800-541-AIDS
Spanish: 1-800-233-SIDA
Deaf/TDD: 1-800-369-AIDS
For more complete information about how to clean
equipment (works) click this link:
AIDSJourneys.org
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