Question

I’m undetectable, can I transmit?

28 January 2018. Related: All topics, HIV transmission.

I’ve been undetectable for ages. My partner and I want to have sex without using condoms, can we?

Thanks for getting in touch.

When someone has an undetectable viral load they can’t transmit HIV. For a comprehensive overview of the evidence, please see here:

Lisa Thorley • 31 January 2018

Hi Emmanuel,

In an ideal situation it should be. However, I cannot say for sure that it is, so you should try and have it tested.
Emmanuel • 31 January 2018

Thanks Lisa

I just saw my viral load test result that I did on 28th of Nov and my viral load is 362. And I have being completely adherence to my drugs. All things been equal it should be undectatible by now. What’s your opinion??
Lisa Thorley • 29 January 2018

Hi Emmanuel,

I persons viral load should ideally become undetectable within 3 months. However it can take longer. Unless you know if your viral load is undetectable, I would advise you to still use condoms. Though this may be frustrating its not worth risking the health of your wife. That said, the end decision is yours.
Emmanuel • 29 January 2018

Hi Lisa

Thanks for your awesome contributions to saving lives.

Where I am from, it takes months to get your viral load test result. We are a discordant couple and in few days time my wife will be ovulating and we want to try without any barrier. I have being on meds since first week of October and I feel great inside me to compare to when I started ART.
What are the risks?