I live with my boyfriend in Berlin in an open relationship. We therefore take it for granted that we should get tested for HIV at least once a year. I now even ask my gay GP for a test every six months.
But I wasn't that experienced with the subject from the start. My first time really took a lot of effort. I was 18 and lived in Dortmund. We talked about sex and the associated risks with our friends - with lots of champagne and the Desperate Housewives. At some point, my best friend offered to accompany me to the test and I gave in.
At that time, everyone who wanted to be tested anonymously had to go to the public health department. I entered through a side entrance into a dark stairwell. Heroin addicts were waiting for their substitutes alongside other people wanting to be tested. Not a reassuring atmosphere for an 18-year-old who is already nervous. In the consultation room, I met a brittle medical officer who took my blood and told me to come back in a week. No questions. No conversation.
Those days are over in most German cities. There are numerous test centres, some even specifically for gays and bisexuals. Boys who have never been tested can go there for counselling before and after the test. There is also a quick test nowadays, unlike twelve years ago. So you don't have to worry for days and then go again. The whole thing takes less than 30 minutes.
HIV test once a year? iwwit.de/counselling Find out more and find test centres near you.
