There are about 30 different sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide that can easily be contracted during sexual intercourse.
One of these is HIV. The abbreviation HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. The HIV virus damages the body’s immune system, which is supposed to protect against other pathogens. If an HIV infection is left untreated, the body will eventually be unable to defend itself against other pathogens and will develop severe forms of otherwise harmless illnesses. This condition is called AIDS.

There are many common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can easily be contracted during sexual intercourse.
One of them is HIV. The abbreviation HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. The HIV damages the body’s immune system, which is supposed to protect against other pathogens. If an HIV infection is left untreated, the body will eventually be unable to defend itself against other pathogens and will develop severe cases of infections that are normally harmless. This condition is called AIDS and can lead to death.

You can obtain information and counseling on HIV and sexually transmitted infections from the appropriate agencies. Counseling is confidential, anonymous, and free of charge, and can be provided in person or by phone.

Topics covered in counseling may include, for example:

• Ways HIV and other sexually transmitted infections are transmitted (gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis...)
• Safer sex guidelines
• Risk assessment
• HIV antibody testing—necessity, procedures, waiting periods
• Risks associated with prostitution
• Risks of infection in the medical field
• Risks of Infection in Everyday Life
• Fear of AIDS
• Dealing with a Positive Test Result
• Living with HIV
• Options for Medication-Based Prevention (PEP and PrEP)

You may also be able to get an anonymous HIV test at the appropriate agency.

You can find general information on the “Love Life” page of the Federal Institute for Public Health.