How is HIV spread?

In the United States, HIV is spread mainly by having unprotected sex (vaginal, anal, and oral) or sharing injection drug equipment such as needles with someone who has HIV.

Only certain fluids-blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk-from an HIV-infected person can transmit HIV. These fluids must come in contact with a mucous membrane or damaged tissue or be directly injected into the bloodstream (from a needle or syringe) for transmission to possibly occur. Mucous membranes can be found inside the rectum, the vagina, the opening of the penis, and the mouth.

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1. What is HIV / AIDS?
2. How is HIV spread?
3. How do I know if I have HIV?
4. What can I do to protect myself?
5. Where can I get tested?