Slide 1
Defending Your self or Your Associate from HIV
Learn how to speak to intimate companions about HIV
Slide 2
Main adjustments in midlife
Regardless of what individuals might imagine, many ladies over age 50 are considering having intercourse. And midlife might imply new relationships and intimate companions. Which means it is advisable shield your self — and your sexual companions — from HIV.
1 out 3 ladies ages 50–64 are usually not in a dedicated relationship.
Slide 3
Recognizing the dangers for HIV
It’s necessary to notice that you may get an STI, together with HIV, at any age.
Ladies over 50 are one of many fastest-growing teams with new HIV infections. Defending your self is important.
Slide 4
Begin with sharing
Earlier than bodily intimacy with a brand new accomplice, share your expectations.
Ask:
What are your safe-sex practices?
Have you ever been examined for STIs?
Deal with earlier companions or on-again, off-again companions like they’re new to you, too. Don’t let familiarity get in the best way of security.
Slide 5
Suggestions for speaking
Clarify your strategy.
For instance: “I get examined repeatedly, and I all the time use a condom.”
Being open about your safe-sex practices may help your accomplice really feel related as a substitute of accused and encourage them to be open as effectively.
Slides 6/7
Defusing defensiveness
Conversations about protected intercourse or STIs might make your accomplice defensive. Some methods to make them really feel comfy:
- Present details
- Reply questions
- Provide to go to a clinic collectively for STI testing
- Get examined your self
If the dialog just isn’t going effectively, you may pause, stroll away and observe up later — and take into consideration whether or not this connection is value maintaining.
Slide 8
Secure intercourse is self-care
Use barrier strategies like condoms and dental dams
Think about taking PrEP, a medication that may stop HIV an infection
Ask about PEP when you have unprotected intercourse
Slide 9
Disclosing your standing when you’re dwelling with HIV
If you happen to’re a lady dwelling with HIV, conversations about intercourse may be difficult. Set your individual timeline and follow what you’ll say.
In some states, the legislation requires that you just disclose your HIV standing earlier than sexual encounters.
Slide 10
Satisfying and protected sexuality
Midlife may be full of latest experiences and nice connections. There could be awkward moments when discussing HIV, however they’re value it for a satisfying and protected intercourse life now and within the years forward.
This academic useful resource was created with help from Merck.
