What Are Magnetic Couples?
The term "magnetic couples" refers to mixed status, or serodiscordant couples. It means that one partner in the couple is HIV positive and the other is not. The term is a romantic way of saying "opposites attract," but these couples face unusual challenges in their daily lives and especially around issues of sexual intimacy.
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Safe Sex
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All couples should be aware of the danger of sexually transmitted diseases, especially HIV/AIDS. With magnetic couples the risk of infection is ever present but can be minimized. Anal, oral and vaginal sex is still possible but it's imperative to take proper precautions and always wear a condom or a dental dam during intercourse. No blood, syringes, or drug preparation equipment should be shared as they can transmit infected blood.
Financial Planning
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Financial planning is key for a magnetic couples. They could face large medical bills and the increased cost of living that comes when one partner has special needs. It's possible that nursing care may be required or that living accommodation be adapted. A professional financial planner can help draft living wills and apportion financial and medical powers of attorney. If the magnetic couple is homosexual, in countries where gay marriage is not recognized the financial planner or lawyer can draft the necessary legal documents to protect one partner's inheritance should the other one die.
Communication
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With the threat of one partner infecting the other ever present, the U.S. Department of Health and Social Services recommends regular on-going communication about safe sex practices. The department suggests that input from a health care professional could assist discussion and give valuable support. There are also support groups available that meet regularly and will put people in similar situations in contact with each other. These groups can be a source of valuable information.
Medication
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Anteretroviral drugs inhibit the ability of retroviruses such as HIV to multiply in the body. In a magnetic couple the positive partner can lower the risk of transmitting HIV by taking these drugs as they lower the body's viral load. Pre Exposure Prophylaxis is an HIV prevention practice where men who are at high risk of being infected take anteretroviral medication daily to lower their risk. As of 2011, this treatment has only been effective on male couples and when taken regularly. Pre Exposure Prophulaxis should always be used in addition to condoms and regular HIV testing.
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