Question
Can I stop using condoms after two weeks on ARVs?
30 November 2016. Related: All topics, HIV transmission, Newly diagnosed, Starting treatment.
I am on treatment for two weeks after finding out I was positive – so me and my boyfriend have unprotected sex every time..is it OK?
Answer
Thanks for getting in touch.
Although your viral load will already be getting lower, it is unlikely to be undetectable yet. This usually takes from 1 to 3 months depending on which combination you are using. Sometimes it might take long than 3 months.
Once your viral load is undetectable, the risk of transmitting HIV becomes very low.
Some recommendations say that viral load needs to be undetectable for 3-6 months to get the greatest protection when not using a condom. This is because in some people viral load takes longer to become undetectable in genital fluids.
Until your viral load is undetectable, your boyfriend will be at some risk.
Please see the following link for more info:
https://i-base.info/qa/12473