Question
How long must I wait until I can have sex?
26 October 2023. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, Complications and coinfections.
Thank you I-Base and staff for the support you give; i’m glad I have your service and support. I had 3 days of injections, followed by 3 days of anti malaria tabs and 7 days of antibiotics and no blood supplements – I can’t readily remember drug names now. Viral load Testing is expensive where I reside so I can’t afford “at will” tests but am on a twice yearly free testing regimen at my facility – am due again in January.
As a precaution, I have abstained from sex because of my fear of transmission – how much longer can I abstain considering I can’t test at will? Thank you again.
Answer
Hi, how are you?
It is great to hear that you have had treatment and are doing well.
Viral load is usually undetectable within 3 months of treatment. It is less clear how quick recovery happens after blips or other infection induced increases in viral load.
You can still have sex using a condom and/or your partner using PrEP. In this case there would be no risk of transmission.
Without confirming your viral load with a test it is difficult to rely on U=U when you are unsure yourself.
Josh.
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