Many people who "know better" engage in risky activities. The reasons for this are numerous and normal: you could be afraid to insist that your partner use a condom; you could make false assumptions about a partner (they seem too young, old, healthy-looking, or nice to be HIV positive); you might be a drinker or recreational drug user who does things while under the influence that you wouldn't otherwise consider.

The hardest part of protecting yourself can be learning how to apply what you know to your life and behaviour.

Be safe and smart with your decisions. Reduce your risk for HIV by avoiding activities that put you at risk and only practicing safer sex. Don't be afraid to get tested, or insist that your partner gets tested; knowing your HIV status and that of your partner (or partners) will help you make more informed decisions.

If you have been a victim of sexual assault, or have had other exposure (like a condom breaking) that you believe may have exposed you to HIV, you should immediately contact a physician and consider short-term antiretroviral treatment (post-exposure prophylaxsis – PEP).