The condom
If a sexual partner is infected with HIV, the risk of transmission of the infection can be reduced, but not excluded, by the use of condoms. AIDS kills, so the residual risk have to be taken seriously.
Young people often have little or no experience with condoms, so that the danger of incorrect application remains considerable. Here, too, the principle applies: the deeper your relationship with your partner, and the more secure you feel with him/her, the more likely it is that you can also talk frankly about the correct use of condoms.
There is also an increased risk of incorrect use under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Only controlled condoms should be used, and the instructions contained in the pack should be followed exactly.
Source: HIV/Aids – Aktuell (Dr. med. Kurt April)
©Translation: AIDS Information Switzerland
Last updated: November 2009
