How long do results take? Rapid HIV tests can give results in 15 to 60 minutes, or on the same day. ‘Rapid’ refers to the time taken for the results and not to the time between exposure and the test. If samples are being sent to another lab, results can take from a few days or a few weeks. Rapid blood tests put a pin-prick of blood on a testing strip. This test takes about 15 to 20 minutes so you can get the results whilst you wait. Some rapid tests also work on oral samples rather than blood. Although they are sometimes called saliva tests this is not accurate. Oral samples collect cells from the surface of the gums...
Male condoms are one of the most commonly used forms of birth control.1 In fact, more than 400 million condoms are sold in the United States each year.They are simple enough to use correctly, but it's easy to use a condom the wrong way if you're not aware of the need to check for and do certain things.A product instruction sheet is a good place to start, but it doesn't detail everything you need to know to make your sex safer. This article reviews how to use male condoms properly and includes photos of things you should do and avoid. 1.Check the Expiration DateThe first step to using a condom correctly is making certain it's still usable.It's important to check...
Do I need to use a condom for oral or anal sex? Yes, if you want to be protected against STIs. Sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, syphilis, herpes, gonorrhoea, HPV, trichomoniasis, and chlamydia, can all be passed on during oral sex (10). This is why it's recommended to protect yourself and your partner by using condoms (or dental dams) during oral sexual activity. Flavored condoms are available for those who don’t enjoy the taste of latex. Meanwhile, a US study found that when condoms were used for anal sex with an HIV-positive partner, they were 70% effective in preventing transmission of the virus (11). Using a personal lubricant can also make anal sex safer. Using a silicone or water-based lubricant decreases the chances...
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that infects cells in the immune system. If it’s not treated with antiretroviral drugs, the immune system can become severely weakened. An important way that HIV is transmitted is through sex, particularly during vaginal or anal sex. Anal sex has a higher risk of transmitting the virus due to the rectum’s thin lining, which can tear easily during sex. One of the ways to help prevent HIV transmission during sex is to use a condom. When used consistently and effectively, condoms can provide an effective defense against the virus. Keep reading to learn more about the different types of condoms and how to use them to prevent contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Do condoms...
Condoms are the only type of contraception that can both prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). There are 2 types of condoms: external condoms, worn on the penis – sometimes called male condoms female condoms, worn inside the vagina – sometimes called female condoms This page is about external condoms, and explains how they work and where you can get them. Condoms are made from very thin latex (rubber), polyisoprene or polyurethane and are designed to stop your semen from coming into contact with your sexual partner. At a glance: condoms When used correctly every time you have sex, male condoms are 98% effective. This means 2 out of 100 people will become pregnant in 1 year when male condoms are used as...
