According to Iowa Code Chapter 709D, if you are going to be in a situation that could place another person at significant risk of HIV transmission by exposure to your bodily fluids (through anal or vaginal sex, for example), you could face serious criminal penalties for failing to take required precautions to protect your partners from exposure.
However, you can avoid criminal penalties by following your prescribed treatment regimen and following the behavioral recommendations of your medical provider or a public health official.
Depending on your unique circumstances and the health recommendations made to you, this often involves:
- Substantially complying with your prescribed treatment regimen; and
- Following behavioral recommendations to limit the risk of transmission. Generally, this means using condoms for vaginal or anal sex. Condoms are highly effective in preventing HIV transmission to your partners when used correctly and consistently.