We are all aware of the link between HIV Infection and injecting drugs or unprotected sexual intercourse. This same link can be made between HIV infection and alcohol consumption, although this connection is not as straightforward as injecting drugs or unprotected sex. Since no unsafe body fluids are exchanged during drinking, many people assume that alcohol has no connection to HIV infection.Alcohol slows down your bodily functions, causing slower thinking and slower reaction. Even after having one drink, the powerful effects of alcohol may be present, especially for those unaccustomed to drinking. When this scenario is added to a person feeling a strong sexual attraction, this could end in unintended unprotected sex, which can very well lead to HIV infection.
What about the “social” drinker? Social drinking may also lead to HIV- related risk behaviors. When a person is mildly drunk they are less likely to follow some of the rules they normally would. For instance, a person who has sworn to use condoms and latex barriers during sex may “forget” or find it difficult to use them after a couple of drinks. Studies have shown that alcohol is the single most common used substance associated with the decision to slip and have unprotected sex.
Alcohol also creates black outs if used excessively over a period of time. During this time one may become involved in unprotected sexual activity or injected drug use and not be able to recall the events. This then makes it difficult to assess their risk of HIV infection.
The connection is clear, alcohol can cause risky behavior. Protect yourself by evaluating your feelings about the epidemic; consider your past and present risks for HIV infection. Get tested to know for sure.