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HIV: Risks of Sexual Contact - Topic Overview

During vaginal, oral, or anal sex, the receiving partner has the higher risk of contracting HIV. Men who allow other men to perform anal sex on them have the highest risk. The inserting male partner has a lower risk, but the risk increases if he is uncircumcised. Women who have vaginal or anal sex with infected men are also in danger. The risk decreases with the use of condoms.

HIV can be transmitted through small sores in the mouth or bleeding gums during oral sex.

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What to Do After Being Diagnosed As HIV-Positive

If you've just found out you're HIV-positive, you may feel overwhelmed, fearful, and alone. Know that you are far from alone. Countless people and resources are available to help you and the more than 1 million HIV-positive people living in the U.S. today. It may help to remember that being HIV-positive is not the virtual death sentence it once was. HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). But being HIV-positive does not necessarily mean that you already...

Read the What to Do After Being Diagnosed As HIV-Positive article > >

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: April 08, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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