Metro in the know
Call/Text 618-381-2877
Male condoms are over 98% effective for HIV/STI and pregnancy prevention when used correctly and consistently
Female or insertive condoms are worn inside the vagina or anus. Female condoms are thicker and more tear resistant
Abstinence is the choice not to have sex. This method is 100% effective in preventing pregnancy and HIV/STI's as long as all sexual contact is avoided, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex
Using lubricant can help avoid friction which can lead to tears in the vagina and anus. Water based is best for vaginal sex, silicone based is best for anal sex. Avoid oil based lubricants as they break down latex
Dental dams are used for oral sex and can keep vaginal and anal fluids away from the mouth
PrEP or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis is a daily medication to lower the chance of getting HIV. It can stop HIV from taking hold and spreading throughout the body. PrEP can only be prescribed by a healthcare provider
Note: PrEP only prevents the transmission of HIV and does NOT prevent other STIs.
Assistance Program:
https://prep4illinois.com/(S(cvs0ym4imy1khm4iei44mnjf))/
PrEP Providers:
Using new, unused needles while using IV (intravenous) drugs can help protect against blood to blood contact. Not sharing needles with others can dramatically reduce the risk of transmitting HIV
Needle Exchange available at:
East Side Health District
5540 Bunkum Road
Washington Park, IL 62204
618-857-7760
HIV medication can make your viral load so low that a test can't detect it. This is called an undetectable viral load. Getting and keeping an undetectable viral load is the best thing you can do to stay healthy. If your viral load stays undetectable, you have no risk of transmitting HIV to an HIV negative sex partner
Using condoms the correct way every time you have sex can drastically reduce the chance of getting STIs/HIV
Female/Insertive condoms can be used for both vaginal sex and anal sex
There is sometimes a lot of confusion around gender identity, gender expression, biological sex, and sexual orientation. Check out the Glossary of Gender and Transgender Terms here.