Is using contraceptive of any type a sin when one or both married persons are HIV positive?

According to the Catholic Church, the use of contraception of any kind is morally wrong and, therefore not acceptable in any circumstances. The Church teaches that the sexual act must be both unitive and procreative. And the use of contraceptives renders the sexual act sterile.

When two of the partners are HIV positive, the question arises if they should avoid pregnancy. Answer is Yes, because there is a chance of the baby being HIV positive. In such cases the couple must opt for Natural Family Planning – ie abstinence during the fertile period. While entering into sexual union, the couple should not intentionally do anything before, during or after the act that removes the possibility of conception. Despite adopting NFP, if pregnancy occurs, the choice is always to continue the pregnancy by taking measures to prevent vertical transmission of the infection. Good treatment options available these days to prevent the baby from getting infected. 

In the other situation where only one partner is HIV positive, the couple should choose to express their love in ways other than sexual union, as infection is certain if they enter into sexual union. The Church proposes sexual abstinence in this scenario. 

The sexual act cannot be seen merely as a means of pleasure, separating it from the life-giving act. Both life-giving and the loving union aspects must go together in a sexual act. Therefore use of contraceptives is a grievous sin, and when committed willfully, it becomes a mortal sin. Mortal sin puts our souls in grave danger of eternal damnation.

It is also important to note that the  ‘barrier methods’ do not completely prevent the transmission of HIV but only lessen the chance of it. The Church as a loving mother recommends ‘complete abstinence’ as the only preferred option. Such sacrificial marital love seeking the good of the other helps the couple to grow in perfect love which is our call as Catholics.