What is sperm washing?

Published: 07 April 2009

Sperm washing is a process that has been designed for couples who want to have a child, where the man is HIV-positive and the woman is HIV-negative. The procedure allows conception to take place with the man's sperm, while reducing the risk of HIV transmission to the female partner and subsequently to the unborn child.

The procedure is based on the premise that HIV-infected material is carried primarily in the seminal fluid, rather than in the sperm cells. The technique involves separating sperm from seminal fluid and using the 'washed' sperm to inseminate the woman.

This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.
Community Consensus Statement on Access to HIV Treatment and its Use for Prevention

Together, we can make it happen

We can end HIV soon if people have equal access to HIV drugs as treatment and as PrEP, and have free choice over whether to take them.

Launched today, the Community Consensus Statement is a basic set of principles aimed at making sure that happens.

The Community Consensus Statement is a joint initiative of AVAC, EATG, MSMGF, GNP+, HIV i-Base, the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, ITPC and NAM/aidsmap
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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.

NAM’s information is intended to support, rather than replace, consultation with a healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor or another member of your healthcare team for advice tailored to your situation.