For an HIV-positive man and an HIV-negative woman

For an HIV-positive man and an HIV-negative woman

Sperm washing can be used to separate the seminal fluid, which contains HIV, from the sperm, which do not contain HIV. The remaining sperm are placed in a substitute fluid and inserted into your vagina when you are ovulating, the time when you are most fertile.

Although it can’t be absolutely guaranteed that no HIV remains, sperm washing is considered very safe.

Sperm washing is not widely available and you may have to pay for this service. Your doctor or GP can give you more information or answer any queries you may have regarding sperm washing.

To be eligible for sperm washing you will need a referral from your partner’s doctor with details of his viral load and CD4 count. You may be asked to show that you are in a stable heterosexual relationship.

If you have difficulty in conceiving or if your partner has a low sperm count, you may want to investigate IVF (in vitro fertilisation) together with sperm washing. You can ask your doctor for a referral to an assisted conception unit where you should receive the same service as couples who are not HIV-positive.

The success rate for sperm washing varies depending on how the sperm is implanted.

You could also consider the option of using donor sperm.