When a person is diagnosed as being HIV-positive, it can drastically affect his romantic relationship. While there is definitely much more to a relationship than sex, it is unarguably a very important part. While there are many people who think that HIV-positive persons should avoid sex, in reality, it is quite possible for them to have a very good sex life provided certain preventive measures are taken.
Is It Possible To Be Sexually Intimate With HIV?
After one partner has been diagnosed as being HIV-positive, it is very natural for couples to be scared of sexual contact. However, many of these fears can be alleviated by a proper appreciation of the risks involved with various sexual activities and how HIV is transmitted. There is a chance that when an HIV infected person engages in a sexual activity like vaginal sex, anal sex, and possibly even oral sex, the infection may be transmitted to the partner. By the proper and consistent use of condoms, the risk of infection can be significantly reduced, though not completely eliminated.
What Is the Risk of Contracting HIV through Sex?
According to scientists, the risk of the healthy partner getting HIV is only around 1 in 1,000 for each sexual act. However, those in a long-term relationship with an HIV-infected person have a greater chance of being infected due to the additive nature of the risk. The risk of infection of a healthy partner depends on numerous factors besides the use of condoms. If the HIV management of the infected partner is not good then it is likely that the bodily fluid will have a larger concentration of the virus leading to a greater risk of transmission. Even though the transmission of the infection through the saliva has not been proven by any Elisa detection test, it may occur if both the partners have open mouth sores, infected gums or oral cuts that allow an exchange of blood.
Having a Sex Life That’s Healthy
The most effective protection is the condoms, even for anal and oral sex.Even if both the partners are infected, protection is still required as any difference in the HIV type could worsen the condition or require medicines to be changed. Remember the virus can only be transmitted by exchange of blood, semen, and secretions of the anus and vagina. Any sexual activity that does not involve exposure to bodily fluids is perfectly safe. It is perfectly okay to kiss as no HIV virus is present in the saliva. In the case of exposure to HIV through unprotected sex, consult a doctor to establish whether PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is advisable to prevent the virus from infecting you. Treatment needs to commence within 72 hours of exposure. In case you anticipate exposure to HIV, find out whether your doctor recommends PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) medication.
Conclusion
It can be pretty scary to have sex initially after being diagnosed as HIV-positive. While keeping your partner informed of your status, use condoms and focus on many other ways of intimacy that keep the relationship alive.
Author Bio: Evans Walsh is a freelance content writer. He has written many good and informative articles on different categories such as technology, health, fashion, beauty, education, career, travel etc. He is very responsible towards her job. He loves to share his knowledge and experience with his friends and colleagues.
