En Español Yes. Having a sexually transmitted disease (STD) can increase a person's risk
of becoming infected with HIV, whether the STD causes open sores or breaks
in the skin (e.g., syphilis, herpes, chancroid) or does not cause breaks in
the skin (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea).
If the STD infection causes irritation
of the skin, breaks or sores may make it easier for HIV to enter the body
during sexual contact. Even when the STD
causes no breaks or open sores, the infection can stimulate an immune response
in the genital area that can make HIV transmission more likely.
In addition,
if an HIV-infected person is also infected with another STD, that person
is three to five times more likely than other HIV-infected persons to
transmit HIV through sexual contact.
Not having (abstaining from) sexual
intercourse is the most effective way to avoid all STDs, including HIV. For
those who choose to be sexually active,
the following HIV prevention activities are highly effective:
- Engaging in behaviors that do not involve vaginal or anal intercourse
or oral sex
- Having sex with only one uninfected partner
- Using latex condoms every time
you have sex
For more information on
latex condoms, see "Male
Latex Condoms and Sexually Transmitted Diseases."
For more information about the connection between HIV and other STDs, see "The
Role of STD Testing and Treatment in HIV Prevention."
If you would like more
information or have personal concerns, call
CDC-INFO 24 Hours/Day at 1-800-CDC-INFO (232-4636), 1-888-232-6348
(TTY), in English, en Español. |