Body Fluids That Transmit HIV

Only certain body fluids from a person who has HIV can transmit HIV. These fluids include

• blood,
• semen (cum),
• pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum),
• rectal fluids,
• vaginal fluids, and
• breast milk.

These fluids must come in contact with a mucous membrane or damaged tissue or be directly injected into the bloodstream (from a needle or syringe) for transmission to occur. Mucous membranes are found inside the rectum, vagina, penis, and mouth.