MN, M.D.: I Heard HIV Can Remain Undetected For 10 Years, How Often Should I Be Getting Tested?

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Q: Experts say you can still have a happy and healthy sex life with HIV or Herpes, but how is that so? What are the guidelines for keeping my unaffected partner safe?

Glad you asked!  Just because a person has HIV or herpes does not mean that they are put in the no-sex zone.  You can have a happy and healthy sex life if you adhere to these recommendations whether you have HIV or herpes.

Obviously, the most effective way to avoid transmission is not having sex with an unaffected partner.  Have you told your partner about your current status?? If not, I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND you do so ASAP!  They need to make a conscious decision that they are willing to take put themselves at a risk in order to be intimate.  You have to put yourself in their position.  I know you may think that it may be impossible that they would put themselves in that situation if they knew, but you would be surprised.  A classical example of a rather steady love in a similar situation is Magic Johnson and his wife, Cookie.  She decided to stay with her man despite him being HIV positive.  If your partner does decide to leave, just know that they may not have been the one destined for you.  Communication is always key and would lift a HUGE burden off of your shoulders so that sex can become more about intimacy rather than being about intimidation.

No protective methods can guarantee you 100% prevention. If both of you have made a conscious decision to be intimate, then using a latex condom can help in protecting your partner from getting HIV or herpes.  It can’t guarantee absolute protection, but condoms have been found to be highly effective when used correctly and consistently.  Always use protection during oral sex through a condom or dental dam.  Other ways to avoid transmission is not share sex toys or reuse condoms/dental dams.

Avoid having sex if you any active herpes sores because you increase the risk of your partner being infected.  Also, even though condoms help to reduce transmission of genital herpes, condoms cannot help you if your sores are located in areas where the condom cannot cover.

Disclaimer:

The information contained here are intended solely for the general information of the reader.  It is not to be used for treatment purposes, but rather for discussion between you and your physician.  Please consult your physician for further information in regards to your own general care.  And always remember, knowledge is power!  Be informed.

Got a question for Dr. Edionwe? Email us at editors@madamenoire.com.

Dr. Mercy Edionwe is a physician specializing in internal medicine. She earned her medical degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch, and afterwards, completed an internal medicine residency at the University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ. During her free time, she loves to write and educate the public on medical issues. She currently resides in Texas. You can follow her on Twitter at @fuchsiamd.

 

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