Can I get HIV from vaginal sex?

Absolutely.

Although many people still think HIV is a virus confined to gay men and illegal drug users, that stereotype is far from reality.

In fact, vaginal sex is the most common way in which HIV is transmitted.

HIV is present in several body fluids involved in sex: semen (cum), pre-ejaculatory fluid (pre-cum), vaginal fluid, and blood.

In women, HIV can enter the body through microscopic holes or tears in the delicate lining of the vagina and through the mucous membrane covering the vagina and the cervix. 

During vaginal sex, these access points can easily be reached by pre-ejaculatory fluid and semen—two body fluids with a high concentration of HIV—thus causing a high risk of passing the virus.

In men, HIV can enter the body through the urethra (the tube that runs through the penis and ends at the tip) or through small cuts or open sores on the penis. 

During vaginal sex, the male penis is constantly exposed to vaginal fluid, which has a high concentration of HIV, and therefore the passing of the virus is highly possible.

The use of a condom during vaginal sex drastically reduces the risk of being infected with HIV.