Question
I am undetectable, can I infect my boyfriend?
18 September 2013. Related: All topics, Sero different couples.
Hi,
I am undetectable for a few years now and a good cd4 count. I had unprotected sex with my bf a few times and would like to know how likely is it that I may have infected him?
He is negative. There was no ejaculation but may have been some pre-cum. I am female.
Answer
Hi,
Thanks for your email. If you are undetectable, you have excellent adherence and you don’t have any sexually transmitted infections the risk of infecting your boyfriend is very low, close to zero. This doesn’t mean that it is impossible, just that it is very unlikely.
This is explained in the Swiss statement, which is also discussed on this page of our pregnancy guide. Have a look there for more information and then let me know if you have any questions.
Hello Evelyn and thanks for getting in touch.
I understand you are worried about your partner but let’s break this down:
Living with HIV, on medication with undetectable viral load means you cannot pass on HIV to your partner.
This has been proved in many clinical trials – we have actual evidence about this.
If this is the case then your partner needs to speak with a doctor and have an assessment as to why he is losing weight.
Weight loss can be caused by many reasons, some times simply by stress.
HIV is just one of those reasons and if you are undetectable then this situation has nothing to do with your status.
Please feel free to stay in touch if you feel we can help.
I’m HIV positive and my partner is HIV negative. The reason to write this email is I’m worried a lot cause my partner has been losing weight dramatically
Hello Shaz and many thanks for your question.
Do you know your viral load?
The evidence we have show that people with undetectable viral load (under 50 copies/ml) cannot pass on HIV to their sexual partners.
There is more information about this here: https://i-base.info/u-equals-u/
Unfortunately, the number of CD4 count, although it is a good indicator for your immune system, doesn’t tell us about transmission.
If you are on treatment and your viral load is undetectable then you cannot pass on HIV to your sexual partners.
That is called U=U (Undetectable = Untransmitable)
Please let us know if you need more information