Sexual Routes of Transmission

Sexual intercourse
In the genitals and the rectum, HIV may infect the mucous membranes directly or enter through cuts and sores caused during intercourse.

Oral sex
The mouth is an inhospitable environment for HIV (in semen, vaginal fluid or blood), meaning the risk of HIV transmission through the throat, gums, and oral membranes is lower than through vaginal or anal membranes.

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