Transmission

The only way HIV can be acquired is if a sufficient amount of HIV passes from an infected person to an uninfected person.

HIV is found in blood, semen (cum), pre cum or vaginal fluids. Fluids such as saliva, sweat and urine do not contain enough virus to infect someone.

In the UK the main way HIV can be acquired by someone is by having sex without a condom (unprotected anal or vaginal sex).

Other ways include:

• Oral sex - whether sucking or being sucked, although the risk is small.
• Sharing sex toys - but you can lower this risk by always washing your toys and using condoms with them.
• Using a needle, syringe or works - if someone with HIV has already used them.