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?
Answer
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:
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.
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??
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.
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?