Thinking about testing for HIV...

Relatively few Scottish gay men go for HIV tests, compared to the rest of the UK or Europe. It is estimated that as few as 50% of gay and bisexual men in Scotland who are infected with HIV actually knows that they are positive. Research carried out last year in Scotland showed that less than half of gay and bisexual men had ever tested for HIV. HIV exists throughout the whole of Scotland and gay and bisexual men continue to be the group most at risk from HIV infection. The rate of new infections amongst gay and bisexual men is rising, not falling.

Many gay and bisexual men in relationships assume that their HIV status is the same, despite neither having been tested. HIV transmission is especially important for people in partnerships who sometimes stop practicing safer sex on the "assumption" that since they are both well, they are not HIV positive. The only way to be sure about your HIV status is to go for a test. HIV transmission is a risk to everyone who is having unprotected sex if either is unsure of their status.

In some countries like Australia, 90% of gay and bisexual men know their HIV status, and regular sexual health checks are promoted. All gay men are encouraged to have an STI/HIV test every year; more regularly if they are particularly sexually active. You may decide to have a regular check up yourself. It could be good for your general health, and put your mind at rest!