Question

Can I have children if I have an undetectable viral load?

7 May 2010. Related: All topics, Pregnancy.

Hello,

My name is Ty and I have been HIV positive since 2007 and undetectable since October of 2008. I was wondering is it possible for me to have children without HIV because I am undetectable? If not what are ways for me to have a safe and healthy child with a woman?

I am only 23 years old but I need to know something like this for my future. I have always dreamed of a son and now I kind of feel like there is no hope for me to have a little part of me carry on. Please help me understand this whole thing when it comes to a man and pro-creating.

Thank you.

Answer

Answer: Charlotte Walker

Hi Ty,

Thank you for your question.

Many HIV positive people today are conceiving naturally and having HIV negative children. In the case where the man is HIV positive and the woman is HIV negative, it is also common for the couple to conceive naturally whilst the woman remains HIV negative.

When you find someone who you would like to have a baby with the first thing you should do is speak to your HIV doctor about it together. If your viral load is undetectable for more than 6 months and neither of you have any STIs the risk of the baby and your partner (if she is not already HIV positive) becoming HIV positive during pregnancy and birth is very low. Your doctor can help you to determine the time at which your partner is most fertile so that you know when is a more safe time to have unprotected sex.

For further information please follow this link to the i-Base ‘Guide to HIV, Pregnancy and Women’s Health’ and follow this link to similar questions about pregnancy and HIV

Good luck with starting your family and remember daughters are just as great as sons!