How to Ask a Potential Partner to Get an AIDS Test

The topic of HIV testing can be uncomfortable but vital. In some instances, a potential partner may be more interested in sex than in discussing matters of health. However, even in casual encounters, you must maintain your standards of safe sex in order to protect yourself and others.

Instructions

1. Talk about HIV testing at a time good for both of you. If you wait until you're both undressed and in bed, your emotions might be too intense to favor rational discussion. Choose a neutral place, like at the park.

2. Use email or text messaging to lessen the intensity of the topic. This provides a good way to broach a sensitive subject if you think your partner might respond with anger or embarrassment. Use silly emoticons to lighten the mood.

3. Inform your partner of your concern to protect your health and your partner's health. Stress that this isn't based on suspicion about your partner's history, but rather about taking ownership of your health.

4. Offer to seek testing together. If you feel that you could be embarking on a serious romantic relationship, this tact can be especially helpful.

5. Get tested first if your partner waffles. When you receive the negative results of your HIV test, say, "It feels great to experience this relief. I'd like you to have the same sense of confidence."

6. Explain what the HIV test involves. Some partners can be nervous about issues of confidentiality. Contact your local testing center before you broach the subject and get some literature to share about the way the center protects patient privacy.

7. Share your desire to put both of your minds at ease. If both tests turn out negative, you can enjoy your sexual encounters knowing that you've taken an important step toward achieving safer sex.