| Ask GMHC
I'm HIV-positive and I recently started having unprotected sex
with my HIV-negative partner. Question
I have been HIV-positive for some time, and I'm in a relationship
with an HIV-negative partner. Recently we started having unprotected
anal sex, though he is always the top.
We have basically decided to go back to using condoms as we are
both concerned about him getting HIV. But can you tell me what
are the risk factors for him as an HIV-negative top having unprotected
anal sex with an HIV-positive bottom?
I understand that a lower risk factor should not be a justification
for having unprotected sex, but it would help to hear from you
for our discussions about our sexual activities.
Thank you.
Answer
Hello,
It is possible for an HIV-negative man to become infected with
HIV by having unprotected anal sex, even if he is the top. In your
particular case, your partner could become infected through any
openings along his penis, like cuts or sores, or more likely through
the opening at the head of the penis, the urethra. For infection
to occur, some of your blood would have to get into a cut or enter
the urethra. This is probably a less likely way for him to get
infected than if you, as a positive partner, were the top and not
using condoms.
It sounds like you and your partner are having mixed-feelings
about having unprotected anal sex. It can help to talk things out
together, since the feelings you both have impact the decisions
you make about sex and also affect your goal of keeping him HIV-negative.
I'm curious about what support you might have, and what your conversations
have been like regarding changes in your sexual life together.
At the GMHC Hotline, volunteer counselors are available if you'd
like to talk more or if you have any other questions. You can reach
us here at 800-AIDS-NYC or 212-807-6655.
Good luck,
The GMHC Hotline
Questions or concerns? Email us at hotline@gmhc.org.
For more information, visit our Hotline.
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