Q and A

Question

Is it possible to sleep with someone HIV positive and not get HIV?

23 November 2022. Related: All topics, HIV transmission, Sero different couples.

I started to sleep with someone who has had HIV since 2018 up until now. Last month I tested negative. Is this possible?

Answer

Answer: Josh Peasegood

Hi, how are you doing?

Yes this is possible. The most probable reason is that your partner is on treatment. While on treatment with a viral load below 200, it is not possible to pass on HIV via sex. This means even without a condom or PrEP, there is no risk of HIV transmission. This is explained by U=U. This stands for when people have an undetectable viral load (below 200), it is not possible for HIV to be transmitted.

There are other factors that can influence the risk of HIV transmission. Sleeping with someone who is positive does not mean you will become HIV positive yourself. These factors inc. type of sex, positions and length of time. More are discussed here.

Josh

64 comments

  1. Simon Collins •

    Hi Boniface, please see this link to learn more about HIV and risk:
    https://i-base.info/qa/11844

  2. Bonface •

    Yesterday I slept with a woman in sex and my condom bursted can I I get any infection like HIV

  3. Christina Antoniadi •

    Hello Philip and thanks for getting in touch.

    Trustiva is an ARV combination medication that can be given for PEP or treatment.

    You are correct to take responsibility for your own health and be on PrEP.
    That is the right thing to do.

    If you were consistent throughout the week and took the doses afterwards you are protected.

    You can read here for more information about the dosing: https://i-base.info/qa/11844

  4. Philip •

    Hi. Yesterday, I had sex with a man who is taking Trustiva. I’m not sure how long he has been on it. He told me he was on PrEP, but I found out that Trustiva is not listed as a PrEP medication.

    I’ve been on PrEP for 6 months, but I’m not always regular with it. I usually take it about 4-5 times a week, though for one (this) week I’ve been taking it consistently. I was the top during sex (no protection), and I’m concerned about the possibility that the other person may have detectable HIV. If it was the case, do you think I need PEP?