Afraid to Get Tested for HIV?

Afraid to Get Tested for HIV?

Every week I talk to several people who decline HIV testing while requesting STD testing and treatment. I have heard multiple reasons to justify declining HIV testing: I am afraid of needles, I know I do not have HIV, I just want to take care of the problem that I am having today, I was already tested. As a healthcare provider, it is my job to educate on the importance of testing and knowing your status. To be honest I do get frustrated when people who have STD symptoms think they have no risk for HIV. The same exchange of body fluids that would expose an individual to gonorrhea and chlamydia can also expose you to HIV. False information still circulates about HIV transmission and risk. There are higher-risk behaviors that increase HIV exposure like having multiple partners, not using condoms, being a male who has male partners, and trading sex for drugs or money. I want people to empower themselves by knowing their HIV status.

Empower Yourself

It is important to understand that getting tested is not something you have to fear. Knowing your status gives you the power to manage your health. If you are negative, you can take the opportunity to take a look at ways to decrease your HIV risk and stay negative. If you are positive, you can take control of your health to ensure that you stay healthy and undetectable which will prevent you from transmitting the virus to a sexual partner. If people start making testing a priority as a society, we can eliminate HIV transmission.

5 ways to reduce your fears

1. Bring a friend along to test
2. Speak to your healthcare provider about what it means to be negative or positive for HIV
3. Understand that HIV is managed as a chronic condition with medications that allow you to live a healthy lifestyle
4. No one can look at you and know your HIV status
5. People with HIV have sex, get married, and have children

Make it a habit to request testing with your yearly physical when you visit your primary care provider (PCP). If you do not have a PCP most communities offer testing through the local health department or STD testing outreach centers. Find a healthcare provider that you are comfortable with an be honest about your HIV risk. Speaking to someone who can provide factual and relevant education will make the testing process and post-test counseling process easier. Each individual has to take responsibility for knowing their HIV status and we can stop the spread of HIV.

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Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about sexual health, STDs, and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This blog does not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing or other professional health care advice, diagnosis or treatment. I cannot diagnose conditions, provide second opinions or make specific treatment recommendations through this blog or website. Any views or opinions represented in this blog are personal and belong solely to the blog owner and do not represent those of people or organizations that the owner may or may not be associated with in professional or personal capacity, unless explicitly stated.

If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment immediately.