How long sex lasts

The longer the duration of sex, the higher the risk of infection.

This is easy to understand. The longer mucous membranes are in contact with body fluids that contain HIV, the higher the risk that HIV may get though.

Sex lasting for longer can also increase the chance of tissue damage.

However, other factors are more important.

Quick sex without a condom is a much higher risk than long slow sex using a condom.

If viral load is undetectable, there is no risk of HIV, even if sex lasts for hours.

PrEP also protects against HIV, even if the sex lasts for hours.

Last updated: 1 June 2021.