Even if a person has no risk factors for HIV infection they may still want to get tested. For many people, HIV testing is something that they choose to do regularly for their own personal reasons. Encouraging everyone to get tested is good practice and a great way to reduce HIV-related stigma. It also encourages responsibility and self-care around HIV prevention.
Some examples of why people choose to test for HIV:
- Some people make the personal choice to get tested because they feel anxious about HIV and want to know their status.
- Some people make the choice to add HIV-testing to their regular schedule or healthcare check-up.
- Some people choose “couples testing” whenever they begin a new relationship or it becomes a regular part of their relationship.
- Some people in ‘monogamous’ relationships make the personal choice to get tested (particularly if they are having unprotected sex) because they feel that their sexual partner may be engaging in risk behaviours (including unprotected sex and/or intravenous drug use) outside of the relationship.
- Some people make the choice to get tested because they are sexually active and have had or do have multiple sexual partners.
Remember that whatever your reasons are for testing, getting an HIV test is your choice and yours alone. No doctor or health care professional should ever carry out an HIV test without your consent.