The link between domestic violence and HIV

In 2016, Black women represented about one quarter (26%) of new HIV diagnoses among Blacks. Statistics show that physical intimate partner violence increases a person’s chances of becoming infected.

Male-to-male sexual contact accounts for the largest share of HIV cases among both Blacks and whites, but fewer Blacks are infected this way. Heterosexual sex plays a bigger role among Blacks infected with HIV when compared to whites.

Forced sex occurs in approximately 40-45 % of physically violent intimate relationships. Forced sex increases a woman’s risk for STIs (sexually transmitted infections) by 2 to 10 times that of physical abuse alone.

People experiencing HIV and domestic violence:

• May not be able to bring up condom use with their partner. Usually, out of fear that the partner will be offended or hurt them.

• May not be able to take their medications in front of a partner because it will make the partner angry. Medications serve as a reminder of the woman’s disease.

• May become so depressed they don’t want to eat, take their medication, or take care of themselves.

Some people are warriors with a strong support system, but others suffer in silence. Sounds familiar, huh?

Like domestic violence victims, people that have contracted the virus may feel ashamed or embarrassed to tell their story.

The way we talk about HIV and domestic violence in our community can lead to victims feeling disrespected and hopeless.

HIV has altered the course of many lives. Our family members and friends have been diagnosed. People are afraid to share their results for fear of rejection.

HIV is contracted all over the country. However, the South accounts for the majority of Blacks newly diagnosed with HIV (63% in 2016) and Blacks living with an HIV diagnosis at the end of 2015 (58%).

It is our job to reassure victims of domestic violence who are HIV Positive that they can rely on our support through trying times. As a community, we should uplift them and fight the good fight with them. As a nation we must join hand in hand to educate and remove the stigma of HIV.

Let’s talk frankly about how to protect ourselves and our families:

• Practice safe sex. Ask your partner about their HIV status.

• Use a latex or Polyisoprene condoms condom and water-based lubricant each time you have sex.

• If you think you may have an STD, visit a doctor or clinic and get treatment.

• Always use clean needles and syringes for injected drugs; don't reuse one after someone else. Try counseling or treatment to help you stop using drugs.

• Talk with teens about safe sex. This is not encouraging them to have sex. It’s encouraging them to protect themselves if they make the decision to have sex.

• LBGTQI (lesbian, bisexual, gay, transgender, questioning, intersex) members of the community are also at risk for domestic violence and HIV. Instead of lecturing them, try supporting them.
  

Please have this tough conversation with your family and friends. Encourage them to go get tested and know their status. Remind them that they have support and that there are resources in the community to help.