Question
Can HIV positive couples safely stop using condoms?
10 September 2024. Related: Adherence, All topics, HIV reinfection (superinfection), Living with HIV long-term, Sexual health, Southern Africa.
What are the risks involved if two HIV positive partners both on ARVs for the last 8 months having sex without a condom.
Please let me know.
Answer
Hi there
Yes, there is no risk relating to HIV and it is easy to stop using condoms.
Even if you both have slightly different types of HIV, there is zero risk of reinfection either.
For many people this can make sex closer and more intimate – so long as both partners are happy.
The only cautions might be pregnancy if the couple is heterosexual, or STIs if it is an open relationship. Some couples decide that any sex outside the relationship can only be with condoms.
Being careful to both take your meds is also important. If viral load was to rebound in the future, this might include drug resistance.
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