Question

We’re both positive, can we have unprotected sex?

23 October 2012. Related: All topics, HIV transmission, Living with HIV long-term, Newly diagnosed.

Me and my girlfriend recently tested HIV positive. We are planning to get married and are faithful to each other. My question is by continuing to have unprotected sex while we are faithful to each other, will that escalate the strength of sickness?

Answer

Answer: Rebecca McDowall

Hi,

Thanks for your question. I’m sorry to hear about your recent diagnoses. But I’m glad to hear you’re supporting each other and looking forward to getting married.

If you and your girlfriend have been having unprotected sex before you were diagnosed there’s not likely to be any new risk from continuing to do so. The only risk would be if one of you had any drug resistance, but if you have the same virus then there is no HIV related risk. There is of course the risk of pregnancy and other STIs.

For more information about please see this page in our testing guide.