Combination prevention is a strategy
of combining two or more proven HIV prevention methods that suit your unique lifestyle
and that, if used properly, will either:
Combination prevention relies on changing
behaviours that might increase the risks of HIV transmission, coupled with technology such as medication, condoms and latex-compatible
lubricants to reduce infection risks. No single HIV prevention method is
foolproof or provides 100% protection; a combination of methods is best, and
there are several options available so that you can find the best combination
that works for you.
Reducing your number of sexual partners means less potential exposure to
infections. Strange as it may sound,
more frequent masturbation can be
seen as a valid preventative behavior for some if it helps reduce their
potential risks of exposure. Likewise, some guys use sex toys to curb their regular needs so that they don’t feel
compelled to cruise for sex partners as often as they might want to.
Avoid barebacking.
Unprotected anal sex facilitates the spread of HIV and other sexually
transmitted infections (STIs). Avoid having sex while using drugs or alcohol so that you make responsible decisions regarding your health. If you inject drugs never share needles with someone else. Consider negotiating an open relationship rather than cheating
on your partner, and develop a plan that ensures you both remain healthy. Stick
to the agreed plan.
Sero-sorting is a strategy of only having sex with people
with the same HIV status as you. A problem is that you cannot be sure of
anyone’s HIV status; many guys have not been screened and just assume they are
negative. Sero-sorting often works best
for HIV positive guys who are networked with other positive guys. Sero-positioning is choosing your role
during anal sex according to your HIV status- An HIV positive guy will be the
bottom during anal sex with an HIV negative partner to prevent the semen of the
positive partner entering the anus of the negative partner if the condom breaks.
Condoms and compatible lubrication remain your best defense against
infections. Find a condom brand you like or use female condoms for anal sex. Water-based lubricant is safe with
condoms but should not be used without condoms as it may irritate the lining of
the anus and increase the risk of HIV and STI infection if you bareback. STIs that
cause sores create an opening which allows entry of HIV. Get screened for STIs every six months.
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a strategy of HIV-negative
guys taking antiretroviral (ARV) medication for 28 days if they have been
exposed to the virus in order to reduce their chance of becoming positive. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) involves
HIV-negative guys who are at risk of repeated exposure to HIV taking ARV medication
long term and before the possible
exposure takes place. PrEP is not available in public sector clinics.
Treatment as prevention (TasP) involves treating HIV positive
men with antiretroviral drugs to lower the amount of HIV in their bodies and
thus in their blood and semen, reducing their risk of infecting a partner.
Whatever works for you, remember that
consistent use of condoms and appropriate lube should form the basis of any
prevention strategy.
For more information
regarding combination prevention visit www.health4men.co.za