Some behavior is more risky than others. It is important to recognize that risk factors are not the direct cause of disease. HIV affects people at every point on the risk spectrum and many people who are most "at risk" for HIV infection never become infected. Understanding HIV risk factors can help you better evaluate your own risk.

Some of the most common behavioral risk factors include:

	Having unprotected anal or vaginal sex with an HIV-infected person or with a person whose HIV status is unknown

	Having multiple sexual partners

	Having sex with sex workers

	Having sex with IV drug users

	Sharing syringes or needles

	Using nonsterile needles for piercing or tattooing

	Having vaginal or anal sex with a condom

	Oral sex

	Another sexually transmitted disease (STD) such as herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, or hepatitis

	Having been the victim of sexual assault

	Having sex while under the influence of drugs or alcohol

	Having a mother who had HIV when you were born