U=U

U=U

& You

What Is U=U?

U=U stands for Undetectable = Untransmittable. This means when the levels of HIV in the blood reach undetectable levels, the virus can no longer be sexually transmitted.

When people living with HIV reach and maintain an undetectable status, they can:

  • Have normal sex lives and relationships.
  • Live without worry of sexually transmitting HIV.
  • Get pregnant and raise a family.
  • Help to end HIV stigma.
  • Bring us closer to ending the HIV epidemic.

HOW DO I REACH AN UNDETECTABLE STATUS?

People living with HIV can reach undetectable viral levels by starting and maintaining a prescribed regimen of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Being undetectable helps to prevent transmission of the HIV virus to another person and decrease your chances of developing certain HIV related cancers, such as lymphoma, cervical cancer, and lung cancer. Learn more about HIV treatment here.

WHAT VIRAL LEVELS ARE CONSIDERED UNDETECTABLE?

Undetectable is when there are fewer than 200 copies of the HIV virus per milliliter (mL) of blood. For comparison, levels are considered high when there are more than 100,000 copies of the virus per mL of blood.

It seems like a big difference, and the good news is that most people can achieve undetectable status as soon as 4 weeks of starting ART. That’s how effective HIV treatments are!

IS U=U A SCIENTIFIC FACT?

Yes! Four research studies monitored condomless sex acts between both male-to-female couples and male-to-male couples. All couples were serodifferent, meaning that one partner was living with HIV (and had reached undetectable status) while the other partner did not have HIV. After more than 100,000 condomless sex acts, there were ZERO transmissions of HIV. The data speaks for itself:
U=U prevents HIV transmission 100% of the time!

HOW CAN U=U HELP END HIV STIGMA?

Stigma stems from misunderstanding, and it can lead to discriminatory ideas and actions based on race, gender, HIV status, and more. By sharing scientifically proven information about U=U, we can combat misunderstanding and normalize conversations about HIV. The virus is manageable and treatable, and the more people who know that fact, the more we can help people live without fear or shame.

Sign the pledge to take action now to help end HIV stigma.

If I am undetectable, can I transmit HIV to a baby during pregnancy?

People living with HIV who maintain undetectable status can safely get pregnant and have children. If you keep up with your prescribed HIV medications throughout pregnancy, there is less than 1% chance of transmitting HIV to a baby. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant. Doctors may ask you to administer HIV medications to your baby for 4-6 weeks after birth or may recommend formula rather than breastfeeding. Learn more about preventing perinatal transmission.

CAN I STOP TAKING MY MEDICATIONS ONCE I REACH UNDETECTABLE STATUS?

No. Reaching undetectable status does not mean that HIV is no longer in the blood. If you stop taking HIV medication, the virus will be able to replicate and reach detectable levels. The virus also becomes transmissible at that stage, making both you and your partners vulnerable to further health complications. Take medications as prescribed to make sure you become—and stay—undetectable.

HOW DO I FIND ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY (ART)?

If you have been diagnosed with HIV and are ready to start treatment and achieve undetectable status, use our locator tool to find a provider near you.

WHAT IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

If you need more information about U=U, you can:

  • Call or text our Centralized Linkage coordinators at (504) 884-3307
  • Call Ryan White Services and Resources at
    (504) 658-2800
  • Continue your research with the following resources:

Are There U=U Resources for Healthcare Providers?

We have you covered too, providers! Click here to download our information sheet containing all the need-to-know information and research on U=U.

Are There U=U Resources for Friends and Family of Persons Living with HIV?

Friends and family of persons living with HIV can help end the HIV epidemic by supporting the person living with HIV, learning more about HIV, talking about HIV, sharing information about U=U and how HIV cannot be transmitted.

Click here to learn how you can stop HIV stigma.

What Can We All Do to Help with U=U Messages?

We can help end the HIV epidemic by showing love and compassion to individuals living with HIV, learning more about HIV, talking about HIV, and passing on the message about U=U.

Sign the pledge to take action now to help end HIV stigma.