Sex, HIV and Hepatitis C… 
 
Reprinted from Gay Health

Q  I have no idea how to move forward in my life when it comes to relationships and dating. I just learned I have both HIV and Hepatitis C and feel like I’m doomed to a life of celibacy. I don’t want to bareback and want to keep me and my partners safe. 

A  Fortunately both HIV and Hepatitis C are relatively difficult to spread and protected sex should keep partners from catching these infections. I know it can be a burden to have to have protected sex all the time, but it can keep your partners who are negative safe. You do not need to be celibate.

There are thousands upon thousands of couples where one partner is postive and the other is negative who keep from infecting each other and still have satisfying sex. Moreover, you might find someone who is positive as a partner. You have a lot to deal with so I urge you to think about getting counseling to help deal with all the issues you face. Celibacy does not have to be the only option.

by Stephen E. Goldstone, M.D., F.A.C.S.