Worried About Staying HIV Negative?

Someone starting a new relationship or becoming sexually active again can be filled with nerves and excitement. Along with the thrill of starting something new comes the concern of staying safe and prioritizing sexual health. Human immunodeficiency virus(HIV) prevention, for instance, becomes necessary, especially for those with an increased risk of exposure. This is an ongoing process that often requires buy-in from a partner to succeed. HIV prevention for new relationships involves testing, education, and added layers of protection. When done well, individuals can stay HIV negative while enjoying amazing new experiences.

The power of prevention

HIV has evolved from a devastating illness to one that can be identified and treated effectively. Strides in HIV treatment are the reason why people are living with HIV for longer. While treatment has been transformative, statistics still show that thousands of new infections occur yearly. Prevention, therefore, should be a priority, especially in new relationships. There is a lower risk of individuals and partners contracting the virus. Prevention is a multi-step process that involves effective testing, medication, consistency, and awareness. As HIV shows no symptoms, prevention steps should start sooner rather than later.

Staying negative starts with testing

A new relationship or situation should start with being open and honest about HIV testing. Knowing one’s status allows for safety in the relationship and reduces the risk of infection. State beliefs about testing up front, getting partners to get tested too. Doctors recommend yearly testing for sexually active couples. There are simple oral antibody tests that can be done at home with a 30-minute turnaround time. Additional nucleic acid tests (NAT) give a clearer picture of HIV status. Testing should also change depending on the relationship or situation. Individuals having sex with multiple partners or men who have sex with men (MSM) should get more frequent testing. Agreeing on testing means couples can feel comfortable and empowered.

From testing to prevention

Testing in a new situationship is not enough, as this only tells one’s current status. Without preventive measures, the risk remains, and a different diagnosis may appear on the next test. HIV prevention starts with a conversation about using condoms, which reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV. This is the easiest, most accessible, and cost-effective way to stay HIV negative. Deciding to avoid risky actions also reduces the risk and can be an effective prevention tool. New couples should set clear expectations.

Should you add PrEP?

Some situations require additional support to improve the chances of staying HIV negative. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use is arguably the most effective option available. The prescription medication adds a viral load in the body that blocks replication of the HIV virus. When the virus cannot replicate, an HIV positive diagnosis cannot occur. Statistics show that PrEP reduces the chances of HIV infection through sexual intercourse by up to 99%. PrEP can be taken daily or on-demand to prevent HIV infection. The risk of HIV infection is higher in certain situations, such as men who have sex with men (MSM) or being with multiple partners.

Confidence through prevention

A new relationship or situation can be fun. Some individuals, especially young adults, are exploring new relationships and sexuality. Everyone wants to do this safely, but the risk of HIV remains. Staying HIV negative should be a priority. Discuss plans with a partner to get tested. Consistent testing ensures everyone is safe and confident about sexual health. Additional prevention methods like condom use and PrEP make new relationships empowering. HIV prevention methods are often locked behind stigma and a lack of information. Use the many resources available at doctors, community centers, schools, and HIV stakeholders. Coming up with a solid HIV prevention plan sets the stage for a healthy new relationship.