Without effective prevention measures, serodiscordant relationships can significantly contribute to the spread of HIV/AIDS, with the risk varying based on the type and frequency of sexual activity and the viral load of the HIV-positive partner.
[2] Globally, an estimated 34 million people are living with HIV, with 68% residing in sub-Saharan Africa nations such as Lesotho[3] and 50% of cases affecting women.
In the United States, over 140,000 HIV-serodiscordant heterosexual couples are estimated, with 52% of HIV-positive women in a national study reporting serodiscordant partnerships.
[4] The World Health Organization reports that up to 50% of individuals living with HIV in ongoing relationships worldwide have partners who are HIV-negative.
Psychological impacts included anger, fear, grief, and loss of control, often exacerbated by the secrecy surrounding their partner's status.