Getting tested means taking charge of your sexual health; like we would any other aspect of our health. It means having courage to step up and do the deed. There are plenty of guys out there who have never tested for HIV/STI’s, or are putting off getting a test because of concerns. Testing can be a scary thing the first time around, even if you know you are at very low risk of HIV and STI’s.
When we are thinking about getting tested, a lot of questions can come to mind; what will they test me for? Do I have to give my whole life story? What if a result comes back positive? The longer we ask ourselves these questions without getting the answers, the more difficult it can become to get the answers and get tested.
It is true that there are pros and cons to testing and knowing your HIV status. And sometimes for the individual the cons end up outweighing the pros and so we put off getting tested. Often people can feel anxious, worried or afraid about having a test. For some people, these feelings can be an obstacle to having a test in the first place. But when you are deciding to get tested, it is important to look at the benefits of testing. For instance, if you are anxious or worried about a potential result, testing can alleviate a lot of your concerns, provide a pathway forward and bring you peace of mind.
Going to a sexual health testing clinic doesn’t have to be a daunting task or a frightening experience, but it does take being brave enough to be responsible for our own health. For information on where you can go for an HIV and STI test go to itest.org.au or call the M Clinic (for men who have sex with men) at 9227 0734
Tony Bober
WA AIDS Council
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