Think it could never happen to you$1 Think again. Many teens and young people are still participating in high-risk behaviours that put their lives in danger. HIV, the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Defeciency Disease) is a sexually transmitted disease that can hibernate in the body for over ten years before it becomes AIDS. So, someone with AIDS won't always "look" like they are sick. Drugs and alcohol can make a person more susceptible to becoming infected with AIDS. Because these substances alter judgement, people using drugs or alcohol are more likely to have unprotected sex, or do things they wouldn't do when sober. You can contract AIDS through a number of ways: through intercourse (either vaginal or anal, heterosexual or homesexual), IV drug use (sharing contaminated needles), or from mother to baby. In the past, people have contracted HIV through tainted blood transfusions. It's a good idea to get and HIV test every six months if you are sexually active or an IV drug user. Quick Facts: AIDS transmission occurs most often through vaginal intercourse. A pregnant woman with HIV/AIDS can give the virus to her baby. Sharing cutlery or silverware with an infected person cannot give you AIDS. Some Initial HIV/AIDS Symptoms Swollen lymph nodes Weight Loss Cough Fever Diarrhea Some Advanced HIV/AIDS Symptoms Night sweats or chills Fatigue Chronic Diarrhea Headache Cancer Safer Sex During Intercourse Male or Female Condoms made of latex or polyurethane will help reduce the risk of HIV transmission, and are the recommended method of protection to use. Avoid natural condoms like lambskin or sheepskin as these will not prevent HIV. Diaphragm with Spermicide Cervical Cap Vaginal Sponge with Spermicide Help Protect Yourself During Oral Sex Performing oral sex on a male: The best way to help protect yourself is with a latex or polyurethane condom. Performing oral sex on a female: The best way to help protect yourself is with a dental dam (a piece of latex used in many dental procedures). Remember, no method of protection is 100% except for abstinence.