Transmission of HIV

HIV can be transmitted when bodily fluids containing a large quantity of virus enter the body and come into contact with wounds or mucous membranes, for example. These bodily fluids mainly include blood, sperm, vaginal fluid and the liquid film on the mucous membrane in the rectum.

HIV is most frequently transmitted during unprotected anal sex (penis in bum) and unprotected vaginal sex (penis in vagina) – even without ejaculating in the body.

Sharing syringes and needles when taking drugs is also very risky.

HIV can also be transmitted from an HIV-positive pregnant person to their child if they do not take medication for HIV. HIV transmission to the child is also possible during breastfeeding.

HIV can also be transmitted by a blood transfusion. In Germany, however, blood transfusions are very safe thanks to various measures like safety tests.

You can easily protect yourself from HIV.