Abstaining from sex and drugs is the surest way to keep from infecting others, and protect yourself from getting infected from other STDs. HIV Prevention SAVES LIVES.

DO limit the number of sex partners if abstinence is not possible, and select them carefully. Talk to them about their behavior and yours, and about your HIV status. There may be legal consequences if you do not tell your partners your HIV status.

DO use condoms properly from start to finish every time you have sex (see the section on Putting On Condoms). Condoms help to protect you from infecting your partner and being exposed to other infections. Receptive anal intercourse, even with a condom, can spread infection. Beware that condoms can break.

DO limit the use of alcohol and other drugs, since they impair judgment and lead to unsafe sex and the sharing of drug injection equipment.

DO enroll in an alcohol or drug treatment program if you drink to get drunk or can´t control your drinking or using IV and/or other drugs. Excessive use of alcohol may damage your liver which may affect your liver functions or limit the HIV anti-medications that may be available to you.

DO get into prenatal care NOW if you are pregnant, and notify your health care provider.

DO clean and disinfect surfaces on which there is visible blood, semen, or vaginal secretions (a 10% bleach solution is recommended.)

DO inform your health care provider (doctor, dentist, other health care workers) of your HIV status when you seek care.

DO keep your immunizations current. Get your flu shot early every fall.

DON'T pass or receive body fluids during sex, specifically blood, semen and vaginal secretions.

DON'T share needles, including syringes and works.

DON'T donate blood, plasma, body organs, semen or other body tissues.

DON'T share toothbrushes, razors, or other items that could become contaminated with blood. Dispose of used razors into hard plastic containers such as empty bleach bottles.