One of the greatest fears women often have upon receiving an HIV diagnosis is that it means the end of their love life. Worries about possible rejection; whether, when, and how to disclose to new romantic interests; shame and deeply internalized stigma–all of these lead many women living with HIV to isolate themselves, particularly when it comes to dating and intimacy. And isolation can take a serious toll on mental and physical health and wellbeing.

In this lively online conversation February 14, Olive Edwards (Love Positive Women);  Thandi Harris, Tiffany Marrero, Bre Rivera, Ashley Slye (National Network to End Domestic Violence) and Masonia Traylor (The Well Project) discuss the ups and downs of dating and intimacy after diagnosis. 

Resources

  • This factsheet from The Well Project provides some helpful tips on disclosing your HIV status to whomever you choose when you are ready. Available in English here and in Spanish here. 
  • The video below is the PWNCares episode on Disclosure. The video and accompanying discussion guide are available for download here. 



For anyone that may be experiencing domestic violence, there are resources and support for you. You can contact the domestic violence hotline at 800.799.7233.