Sex without ejaculation may reduce the overall risk of HIV transmission, but it doesn’t necessarily prevent it.
That’s because HIV inprecum(pre-seminal fluid) can still put you at risk.
Each key in of sexual contact carries its own risk of HIV transmission.
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
Receptive anal sex, for instance, carries a higher risk of infection than receptive vaginal sex.
Oral sex has the lowest risk of transmission.
Because pre-seminal fluid can contain the virus too.
Can You Get HIV From One Exposure?
However, there are numerous factors that can increase that risk.
HIV Viral Load
An untreated HIV infection can lead to a highviral load.
A higher viral load in the blood corresponds to a higher concentration of viruses in pre-cum.
Anal Sex
Therisk of HIV from anal sexis high because rectal tissues are delicate and easily broken.
This allows the virus to pass directly into the bloodstream.
These are the very cells that HIV targets and infects.
Because of this, even a small volume of fluid may establish an infection.
These factors can raise the risk of infection.
The viruses are then “shed” into semen and pre-seminal fluid, increasing their infectiousness.
There are many variables that play a role in determining a person’s risk.
While pulling out before ejaculation may reduce the chances of transmission, it does not eliminate it.
Summary
Pulling out before ejaculation does not prevent the transmission of HIV.
Pre-seminal fluid contains roughly as much HIV as semen.
And, even though fluid volumes tend to be smaller, there may be enough to cause an infection.
If you are concerned that you’ve been exposed to HIV, don’t wait to get tested.
Instead, head to your nearest clinic to requestpost-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
PEP needs to be started no later than 72 hours after possible exposure, ideally within 48 hours.
Arapid HIV testis given beforehand to ensure you don’t have HIV.
AnotherHIV testis given afterward to confirm whether the infection has been prevented.
If you are HIV-positive, it is important to take your medications correctly to keep your viral load undetectable.
Your partner can also take PrEP to reduce their risk of getting HIV.
HIV is treated with antiretroviral drugs.
Lifestyle changes can also keep you strong and help you avoid infection.
The symptoms of HIV vary by stage.
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