13 February 2024 , 11:42
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A woman has revealed how while cleaning the house she came across some evidence that indicates her husband has been tested for HIV. Stunned, she shared an anonymous post on a parenting forum asking for advice on how to go forward.
She explained: “I was going through papers on the desk in our kitchen, and I came across a pamphlet for accessing medical test results online. I almost trashed it in my reckless purging state, then decided to hang onto it in case my husband needed it.
“I opened it and glanced at it briefly. It had a sticker with a UPC code to match the specimen taken to the lab. Then I realized it was a pamphlet for HIV antibody testing. Can anyone give me a good reason why my husband would take this test given we have been in a monogamous relationship for 20 years? I plan to ask him when he gets back in town, but he is currently on a trip.”
People reading the post were quick to comment, with many stunned for the wife and anxious that she should speak to her husband before freaking out completely. One person rationally offered: “Life insurance can require proof of HIV status.” And someone else replied: “Did he have a physical recently? I had one a few years ago because my doctor asked if I wanted to full workup. I said why not. I'm happily married and have no concerns about cheating. But I just agreed to everything since they were already drawing blood.”
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However, another user who wasn’t quite as sympathetic replied: “Most likely because you’re not in a monogamous relationship of 20 years. He’s traveling for work? Go get an std panel.” Another person agreed, suggesting: “Yes. Get checked. Don’t say anything to him about it. Observe with your eyes wide open for the next few weeks. See if you notice anything. Use your intuition.”
HIV (human immunodeficiency viruses) damages the cells in your immune system and weakens your ability to fight everyday infections and diseases. It can be spread through various ways as the virus can live in semen, vaginal and anal fluids, blood, and breast milk, the most common being unprotected sex, sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment.
HIV can turn into AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), which is the name used to describe several potentially life-threatening infections and illnesses that happen when your immune system has been severely damaged by HIV. AIDS cannot be transmitted from one person to another.
While there is currently no cure for HIV, there are drug treatments that enable most people with the virus to live a long and healthy life. With early detection and medication, most people with HIV will live a near-normal lifespan.
Despite relentless campaigning and education, there is still a huge amount of stigma when it comes to HIV and AIDS. Many people have incorrect ideas and information about the virus due to misconceptions and images that appeared in the early 1980s. If you need more information or help, please contact the Terrance Higgins Trust for confidential advice.