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Are you in a relationship? Have you already had a conversation with your boo about his sexual health? Have you seen his test results? Better yet, have you gone to get tested together. June 27th is HIV Testing Day and because of this not-so-celebrated “holiday,” we decided to shine a little light on the uncomfortable subject. We had a chat with Drs. Rob and Karla Robinson (who also happen to be married) and they explained everything from how to open the dialogue of getting tested together, why men resist testing and how a woman can protect herself against HIV in long-term relationships.

Must Read: What To Look For: 14 Symptoms Of HIV

Drs. Rob & Karla Robinson have established The Urban Housecall Magazine, an online health and wellness magazine with health information for men, women and children as well as The Urban Housecall Radio Show to promote the message of health and wellness through the airwaves. So, we trust their judgment on the topic of HIV in relationships. Here’s what they had to share with us:

HelloBeautiful: How does a woman up a dialogue with someone she’s dating about STDs and getting tested together?

Having the conversation about STDs and getting tested while dating should be brought up just as easily as the conversation about careers, marriage and the plan for children. Women engaging in sexual activity while dating need to also start planning for their sexual future, just like they would plan everything else in the future.

In reality, the best time to start this dialogue about sexually transmitted diseases and infections is in the beginning of the relationship before any sexual activity ever occurs. Women often make the mistake of having one of the most important conversations in a relationship well after there is an emotional attachment and when it is easier to, therefore, compromise on their beliefs.

HB: A lot of women get infected in a serious relationship. What are the best things a woman can go in a serious relationship/marriage to stay safe and healthy?

Whether married, in a serious relationship, or in a casual relationship, women having sex are at risk of contracting HIV. Some of the most important steps to take in protecting yourself from HIV is to first of all know YOUR status. Make sure you are getting tested at least once a year or more depending on the number of sexual encounters. Next, make sure you know THEIR status. Have an open dialogue with your sexual partners before you engage in sexual activity and don’t be afraid to ask for proof. Lastly, be sure to take protection in your own hands. Sometimes women leave the responsibility of carrying condoms up to the man, but you can always be proactive about your sexual health and carry condoms yourself.

HB: Why do you think Black women are afraid to be more vocal about HIV testing in relationships?

This is an issue that likely has many layers. It may be rooted in fear. Fear of losing their partner, fear of being perceived as promiscuous, or fear of being viewed as being accusatory of their mates. Unfortunately, discussing HIV testing can be an uncomfortable conversation, but still a very necessary one.

HB: There’s an issue with men thinking it’s harder for them to contract HIV from a woman. Can you speak to that point?

Anatomically speaking, there is in fact a higher likelihood of transmission of HIV from men to women given the depository nature of male-female sexual intercourse. However, it is still possible for a man to contract HIV from a woman, and it does happen. While the amount of surface area potentially exposed to the HIV virus is smaller for a man than it is for a woman during intercourse, anytime there is an exchange of bodily fluids the risk exists. Black men represent 70% of all new HIV infections in the black community. Men still need to protect themselves whenever engaging in sexual activity.

HB: What are some ways that women can get over the roadblock of, “If you’re ok, then I’m ok, right?”

Women need to begin taking on the responsibility of sexual health for themselves. It is not enough to assume that “If you’re ok, then I’m ok, right?” KNOW that you are ok. With all of the rapid testing methods and the availability of testing centers in most communities, and even now the ability for at-home HIV testing, there is no excuse to not being in charge of your own sexual health.

HB: Why do men resist testing?

There are a lot of reasons we don’t get tested. First of all, fear is a huge factor among men. We simply rather not know. There is an old adage, “what you don’t know, won’t hurt you.” However, in our community as it relates to HIV, “what we don’t know is killing us!” Another huge issue is the misconception that HIV only affects certain “high risk” groups like IV drug users or homosexual men and the stigma attached with it. Therefore, men feel if they are getting tested, it will be assumed we belong in one of these “high risk” groups. When in reality, HIV can affect anyone.

HB: What can a woman do when a man is resistant to using a condom, especially in a committed relationship?

A woman has the power and should exercise the right to be in control of her sexual health. If her man is resistant to using a condom, she can be resistant to agreeing to sexual activity. Years ago there used to be a saying “No glove, no love.” We need to feel empowered to take control in protecting ourselves and our health, even if it means saying no.

HB: What does a woman need to be aware of (other than condoms) to protect herself against HIV/STDs?

Abstinence is really the only way to completely protect against HIV/STDs, but there are some other ways to protect yourself from HIV/STDs when engaging in sexual activity. In addition to condoms, there are other barrier methods that are useful when having sex. Dental dams serve as a barrier when engaging in oral sex and can help to protect not only against HIV but other infections like HPV which can lead to oral cancer, HSV which can cause herpes, as well as Chlamydial infections that can also affect the mouth and throat.

When engaging in sexual activity with sexual toys and accessories, it is important to sanitize them. This is often overlooked as a source of sharing bodily fluids. It is also very important to avoid mixing drugs and alcohol with sex. Using any substances that may affect your judgment when engaging in sexual activity, greatly increases your risk for making decisions that can put you at risk of contracting HIV/STDs . Finally, it is important to know that there are other ways to show affection in a relationship instead of sexual activity. Hugging, kissing, quality time and cuddling can effectively communicate your love to one another without putting yourself at risk of HIV.

HB: Can you speak on women having to deal with violent reactions from their partners when they find out their positive status?

It may not be a bad idea to discuss sensitive topics such as a positive HIV status in a safe, non-threatening environment with a support person in place. As always, if you ever find yourself in a dangerous situation, it is always important to seek help and get to safety immediately.

HB: What are the top questions a woman needs to ask her doctor when she finds out she’s HIV positive?

If a woman finds herself HIV positive, there are a few things that are critical to her living a healthy life with HIV. First she needs to ask for an HIV specialist in the area. There are so many advances in treatment in the field of HIV, being under the care of someone who is equipped to manage your health with the newest treatments will ensure a jumpstart on the road to good health. Next, be sure to ask to be referred to a counselor.

Many emotions can run through the mind of a woman who has just become aware of her HIV infection, and counseling can help with coping and dealing with this new diagnosis. Lastly, ask for HIV education. A person newly diagnosed needs to have a full understanding of this virus, how it is spread, how it affects the body, and how it is managed. Knowing your body, and knowing what to expect, can help many to have hope for the future and can put you on the right track to leading a healthy life with HIV.

About The Urban Housecall:

The Urban Housecall was created to serve as a comprehensive health and wellness resource designed to meet the healthcare needs of the urban community. Dynamic duo husband and wife team, Dr. Rob & Karla Robinson are board-certified, licensed physicians. Dr. Rob specializes in internal medicine and Dr. Karla specializes in family and pediatric care.

DON’T MISS:

June 27 Is National HIV Testing Day: Here Are Six Facts You Need To Know Now

What Black Women Living With HIV Want You To Know

A Couple Who Gets Tested Together Stays Together: 2 Doctors Break Down Love & HIVĀ  was originally published on hellobeautiful.com