Real Talk: Protecting Yourself & Your Bae from HIV

January 15, 2025

Keeping Your Bae Safe From HIV

When that special someone comes into someone’s life, the sparks fly. Both parties are eager to spend time with each other. There is also the opportunity to have a healthy physical relationship. Enjoying a spicy sex life with a bae can lead to concerns about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. While there have been strides in HIV treatment, there should still be some focus on staying HIV-free. There are some strategies that both parties in a relationship can use to stay healthy and happy.

Let’s have a heart-to-heart

Staying HIV-free starts with having a conversation about HIV protection and safety. There’s often a stigma around HIV and talking about HIV prevention. However, being open allows couples to be confident and have more enjoyable relationships. An honest conversation about sexual health allows couples to establish boundaries and set standards for HIV protection. The couple can then proceed with education, testing, and long-term prevention strategies.

Use protection the right way

As HIV is primarily a sexually transmitted disease, couples should take steps to minimize infection. Condom use, for instance, is a simple, cost-effective way of establishing HIV protection. Not only can condom use help with HIV, but also sexually transmitted infection (STI), which can damage relationships. Condoms are fantastic for STI prevention, including HIV, but are not foolproof. Consistent, correct use is essential for a safe, fulfilling love life with a bae.

Get extra protection with PrEP

HIV can go beyond condom use. Couples are often unaware of additional resources to provide additional HIV protection. Using antiretrovirals like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can significantly reduce the risk of contracting HIV via sex. When used daily and correctly, PrEP creates an environment in the body that prevents the disease from replicating. Think of PrEP as an extra layer of protection that can make relationships more spontaneous. PrEP is a prescription medication, so speak with a doctor or sexual health expert for more guidance. There are also programs that are focused on HIV prevention that can supply PrEP for free.

Go on a testing baecation

When couples communicate about HIV and sexual health, the next step is to take consistent action. HIV testing plays a significant role in staying safe, even with condom and PrEP use. Doctors recommend yearly testing for monogamous couples. Couples who opt for unprotected sex or may have multiple partners should consider more frequent testing. At-home testing provides discreet results in as little as 30 minutes. Doctors recommend occasional blood tests, which can give a more accurate account of the virus in the body.

Get real about HIV protection

A healthy emotional and physical relationship with that special someone can feel amazing. Being committed, however, may not be enough, as there is always the risk of HIV infection. Having a healthy conversation about sexual health establishes a close, healthy bond. Consistent testing and protection via condoms and PrEP can significantly reduce the risk of HIV. Sometimes, making these changes is easier said than done. Consider seeking support from doctors or HIV advocates who can provide resources and guidance for long-term success.

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