FAQs
What is U=U?
Consistent use of HIV medication suppresses the virus to undetectable levels. That makes you untransmittable. You can’t spread the virus sexually.
What does undetectable mean?
HIV can’t be found in your usual blood tests for at least 6 months in a row.
What is a viral load?
It is the amount of HIV virus in your body. When a person takes their HIV meds as prescribed, the amount of HIV virus in the body goes down.
So, I can’t transmit HIV sexually if I am undetectable?
If you stay on your meds and your viral load is undetectable then it won’t be transmitted.
Are you saying it’s impossible to get HIV from someone who is undetectable?
There have been no confirmed cases of HIV sexual transmission from an undetectable person.
How long will it take for me to get to undetectable?
Generally, it takes about 16 to 24 weeks of treatment.
I stopped taking my HIV meds, am I still undetectable?
If you stop taking your meds, your viral load will increase and you will not stay undetectable.
Can I get other STDs if I am undetectable?
Yes, you can get other STDs, HIV meds do not stop other sexually transmitted diseases.
Do I need to use condoms if I am untransmittable?
It’s up to you. Condoms provide protection for other STDs.
Should my HIV negative partner use PrEP or condoms?
Everyone should have a plan for protecting themselves. Your partner should decide what works for them.
