Which of the following modes of sexual transmission provides the LOWEST risk of HIV transmission?

The mode of sexual transmission that provides the lowest risk of HIV transmission is female to female relationships. There are a few key factors that contribute to this assessment.

Firstly, in sexual activity between females, the primary forms of intimate contact are often non-penetrative, such as mutual masturbation, oral sex, or other activities that do not involve vaginal or anal intercourse where bodily fluids are exchanged directly. The risk of HIV transmission is significantly reduced with these types of activities compared to penetrative sex.

Additionally, the biological aspects of female bodies indicate that women generally do not have the same physiological risks that come with anal or vaginal intercourse. Penetrative sex (either male-to-female or female-to-male) typically carries a higher risk of exposure due to the presence of bodily fluids such as vaginal secretions or semen, which can contain the virus if one partner is HIV-positive.

The incidence of HIV transmission through female-to-female sexual contact is comparatively rare, and studies suggest that while there is a theoretical risk, it is much lower than that associated with sexual activities involving male partners.

This understanding highlights the importance of recognizing the various factors contributing to the risk of HIV transmission and underscores the need for safe practices across all types of sexual interactions.