What is the main mode of transmission for HIV?

The main mode of transmission for HIV is unprotected sexual contact. This includes both vaginal and anal intercourse where bodily fluids, mainly semen and vaginal secretions, can come into direct contact with mucous membranes, allowing the virus to enter the bloodstream. HIV is primarily found in these bodily fluids, which makes sexual contact the most significant risk factor for transmitting the virus between individuals.

Other methods of transmission, such as sharing needles or mother-to-child transmission during birth or breastfeeding, are also important but fall under the broader category of direct exposure to these bodily fluids. Airborne droplets, indirect contact with surfaces, and insect bites do not play a role in the transmission of HIV, as the virus does not survive well outside the human body and cannot be transmitted through casual contact or by vectors like insects.