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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Has hiv-related stigma ever adversely affected your dating life or sexual relationships?

A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Illinois City, IL
April 12, 2023
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members opened up about how HIV-related stigma has deeply affected their dating lives, with many sharing stories of rejection after... Read more

Members opened up about how HIV-related stigma has deeply affected their dating lives, with many sharing stories of rejection after disclosure, ghosting, and partners refusing intimacy even with safe sex. Several members described coping strategies, including choosing to date only other HIV-positive individuals, stepping away from dating entirely, or disclosing their status upfront to filter for genuine connections. A recurring theme was the painful loneliness of being rejected for a manageable health condition, the longing for a partner who can see past the diagnosis, and frustration that stigma persists despite medical advances like undetectable status.

A myHIVteam Member

Lol I dated one guy since I got hiv and he refused to even have safe sex with me. I hope one day I’ll find someone who can look past the stigma and just love me as I am. It’s affected me very much

April 12, 2023
A myHIVteam Member

I still run into guys all the time, as soon as you mention hiv, suddenly they have to walk the dog or something like that. When that happens, I know it's going to be a mighty long walk! Lol. I always know the ones that you will never hear from n again. I'd rather date someone that is positive. It's a shame there's still so much stigma and ignorance out there, when there's so much information out there, and the meds have improved drastically.

May 6, 2023
A myHIVteam Member

Thank you Jeffrey and so are you

April 13, 2023
A myHIVteam Member

Yeah your right on that.....

April 13, 2023
A myHIVteam Member

Well fine is there a lot of people have a very negative feeling about HIV. It can be difficult dating with disclosure.

April 12, 2023

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