HIV is a virus transmitted by contaminated body fluids including blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. Persons may be exposed through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from other exposures to infected fluids, such as in occupational needle sticks. Any person who has a known exposure to such body fluids that may be infected should be tested. It is now recommended that all pregnant women be tested routinely. Talk to your doctor about HIV testing; it could save your life and that of someone you love.