Welcome to the Physician-Led Health Coaching weekly newsletter. I’m Dr. Ashori, a board-certified physician turned health coach. I help people fix brain fog, fatigue, and stubborn weight before they turn into real disease.
We grew up hearing a lot of confusing stories about HIV. This should be an easy read and help clear up a few of those myths.
Article Summary:
- HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, saliva, or sharing food.
- Modern treatment can make HIV undetectable, which means it is untransmittable.
- The virus is treatable and manageable, and people live long, healthy lives with it.
1. What I Learned Growing Up
I started medical school in 2001, long after the scariest times of HIV. But the way we managed the disease back then is worlds apart from now.
The goal now is to keep people’s viral loads undetectable which means that the virus can’t be transmitted. This is such an incredible breakthrough.
2. Myth 1 = HIV Spreads Through Casual Contact
Not just in the US but especially in other countries, the fear of transmission still shows up in families, workplaces, and dating. It keeps the stigma alive, even though casual contact can’t spread the virus.
HIV is not transmitted through saliva, sweat, or touch. It requires specific body fluids and specific routes.
3. Myth 2 = People With HIV Always Look or Feel Sick
Many don’t get tested because they don’t ‘look sick.’ Even in 2025, this myth continues to exist. The only chance at a good life with HIV is getting tested and treated early.
Treatment today suppresses the virus and it’s much more affordable than ever before. People can live long, healthy lives with HIV, raising families, working, aging, and living well.
Undetectable means untransmittable. When the virus is suppressed to an undetectable level, it cannot be passed to a partner.
4. Myth 3 = HIV Is Rare Today, So You Don’t Need To Worry
The virus is less common than in past decades, but not rare. Adults in their 30s to 50s should still know how transmission works, and how PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) protects people.
5. Myth 4 = Oral Sex & Kissing is How People Catch HIV
Kissing, even with small cuts, is considered extremely low risk. It’s a common ‘what if’ situation people bring up to me in my clinic.
As for oral sex, the risk isn’t zero but I have never had a patient who contracted HIV through oral sex. The risk is higher with sores, bleeding, or if your partner has a very high viral load of HIV.
How To Think About Your Own Risk
Regular STI screening and asking your partners to get screened is very important. Using a condom lowers your risk immensely. PrEP exists.
Disclaimer:
Dr. Mohammad Ashori is a U.S.-trained family medicine physician. The content shared here is for education and general guidance. It is not personal medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Humans are complicated and your personal details matter. Your healthcare team is your best resource before making medical decisions, changing medications, or managing symptoms. This information is to help you add more depth to those conversations.
Want a Clear, Private Plan for HIV and STI Risk?
If HIV anxiety or confusing information has been weighing on you, I can help you get clarity without shame, fear, or overthinking.
In a 1:1 session, we’ll review your personal risk, discuss testing and prevention options (including PrEP when appropriate), and map simple next steps that fit your life.
- Clarify what is high-risk vs. low-risk exposure
- Build a practical testing schedule that makes sense for you
- Discuss prevention options (condoms, PrEP, and risk-reduction habits)
- Answer your questions in plain language, without judgment
Book a 1:1 Call With Dr. Ashori
Prefer to start small? Book one session and we’ll map your next 30 days for clarity, testing, and prevention.
