7 ways to make dating as an HIV positive person easier

The stigma and misconceptions surrounding HIV/AIDS have led to many people living with it feeling isolated and alone. Dating can be hard for those who are HIV positive, especially when disclosure is a priority in the relationship. It's important to remember that there are many others out there who live with HIV and if you're committed to pursuing a relationship, then you should find someone who wants to do the same thing.

Here are seven ways that can make dating as an HIV positive person easier:

1. Use HIV dating sites and apps.

There are many online dating platforms that cater specifically to people living with HIV. By using these HIV dating sites, you'll be able to connect with other people who understand what you're going through and share the same interests.

2. Be upfront about your status.

Many HIV positive people are afraid to disclose their status to potential partners for fear of being rejected. However, it's important to remember that there are many others out there who are also living with HIV, and if you're serious about pursuing a relationship, then it's best to be honest from the start. If your partner can't handle your status then they probably weren't worth your time in the first place.

3. Avoid casual sex.

While having casual sex doesn't have to be risky, it's always best to be safe when it comes to sex. If you're not comfortable having casual sex without a condom then don't do it. HIV isn't the only thing that can be transmitted during unprotected sex - there are many other STIs out there that can also be dangerous.

4. Educate yourself about HIV.

The more you know about HIV, the easier it will be to have a constructive conversation about it with your partner. There are many great books and articles out there that can help you learn more about the virus.

5. Be confident in yourself.

Living with HIV can be tough, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. You are just as capable and lovable as anyone else, so don't be afraid to put yourself out there. Being confident in yourself will attract people who are also looking for a serious relationship, and not just a casual fling.

6. Don't feel pressured to disclose your status.

If you're not comfortable disclosing your HIV status, or simply don't want to at this point in time, then that's perfectly fine too! By saying that you're on PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) might be enough to ease their anxiety. If your partner truly cares about you then they shouldn't need to know every detail about your medical history.

7. Remember that everyone's different, and it's okay not to date someone who's living with HIV if you don't want to.

At the end of the day, it comes down to what you're comfortable with, and if someone does reject you because of your status or not, then it might be for the best. You don't owe anyone anything in terms of disclosing your HIV status when you aren't ready to either.

Dating is hard enough without having hiv or an hiv diagnosis. As a result, many of us are not getting the opportunity to date at all. Some people have found dating sites for hiv positive singles which are perfect if you're looking for somebody who understands what it's like to live with hiv on a daily basis and share your struggles. It can be difficult disclosing that you're hiv positive on first dates but there are some things you can do beforehand in order to make this process easier- try practicing disclosure scenarios before meeting up with someone new so that when the time comes, everything will feel natural instead of awkward. If it feels too intense, then disclose over email by writing "I'm HIV positive" as the subject line and then giving a brief explanation of what hiv is and how you live with it. This can help to avoid any potential misunderstandings and also allows the other person to decide if they're still interested in meeting you.

It’s important to remember that there are many others out there who also live with HIV and if you want a serious relationship then it is best to be honest from the start. If your partner can't handle your status, they probably weren't worthy of your time in the first place. Remembering all this may help make dating as an hiv positive person easier- now go find someone who wants what you do!

Please remember that this is only general information and is not intended to be a replacement for professional medical advice. If you are living with HIV or are considering dating someone who is, please consult with your doctor before making any major decisions. Thank you!