Menstruation and sex

Menstrual fluid is made up of blood, uterine tissue and other substances, and it does contain HIV, although there has been little research about the levels of virus [1]A small infective organism which is incapable of reproducing outside a host cell. present.

It is possible that there are increased risks of HIV transmission during menstruation, so barrier protection such as condoms and lubricant are particularly important.

• Using a diaphragm prevents menstrual blood entering the vagina;
• Using a tampon or a sea sponge can be helpful if you want to have oral sex during your period, but bear in mind that there may be traces of blood present;
• For women who have hepatitis C, it is particularly important to prevent others having contact with your blood as HCV [2]Hepatitis C virus. is more readily transmissible than HIV. HCV is readily transmissible through blood.