Expert: Terry B - 9/6/2006

Question
My boyfriend works in the sheet metal industry and gets nicks and/or minor cuts on his hands sometimes arms.  I am the   partner.  How long before these nicks/cuts are healed enough that an accidental transmission from either vag. secretions or blood from myself are safe?  

Answer
Dear M. Arnett:

Peace and all good things to you.  Regarding your boyfriend, the nicks and cuts you describe will be an occupational problem as long as he works in the industry; the initial healing processes will probably be varied and ongoing, therefore waiting for individual cuts to heal sufficiently might be difficult and impact your romantic life.  Let me ask a question back and suggest some alternatives to decrease risk.

1) Are you HIV positive?  By your question I would guess that you are and trying to protect your partner.  If not, or if you don't know your HIV status, please be tested.

2) Latex gloves are easy to use and cheap to purchase.  While not necessarily thought of as romance-enhancing, a sense of security might in fact make them so.  These would allow your boyfriend to augment his barrier protection (reduce chances of a route of transmission) during your encounters with him.  In a pinch, a condom can be used, for example, to cover a finger.

I hope this is helpful, and wish you the best for your health and that of your partner.

Sincerely,

Terry