Why is emtricitabine/tenofovir helpful to people living with HIV positive partners?
HIV is a thorn in the flesh of intimate relationships because of the transmission risks, limited awareness, and stigma that comes with it. In addition, emotional and psychological challenges that come with one partner being HIV-positive can significantly impact any relationship. Thanks to extensive research and successful clinical trials, you can manage HIV effectively with Emtricitabine/Tenofovir. Commonly known as Truvada, FTC/TDF is a combination antiretroviral medication. Here is how it can be helpful if you live with an HIV-positive partner.
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis
This medication is prescribed as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which prevents HIV transmission. It comes in handy if you live with an HIV-positive partner and are at high risk of contracting the virus. Unlike post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which you take 72 hours after exposure, you must take it consistently and correctly. It prevents transmission by blocking the enzyme responsible for HIV replication, reverse transcriptase. The dosing of this medication is simple, making it convenient and easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
Improved Sexual Health
Being a partner in a serodiscordant relationship (one where one partner is positive) puts your sexual health at risk. Besides contracting the virus, you will be susceptible to other sexually transmitted infections. By taking FTC/TDF, you must incorporate other prevention measures, such as condoms and regular testing. As a result, your sexual health will be sound, leading to physical well-being, emotional well-being, and relationship satisfaction.
Empowerment and Relationship Equality
Additionally, taking FTC/ TDF empowers you and enhances relationship equality. This benefit can be attributed to the fact that you will have control over your health. Taking this medication will also promote equality because the burden of daily dosage will not fall on the positive partner. You will also be empowered to discuss this and other preventive measures in the relationship because you are actively involved. As a result, you will reduce anxiety and stress in your relationship, and live a fulfilling life.
Helps in Maintaining Intimacy
HIV undoubtedly affects intimacy because of transmission fears, shame, and stigma. Depression can also kick in when intimately involved with an HIV-positive partner. Taking FTC/ TDF will help you combat these problems. Instead of worrying, you will be focused on taking the dosage daily and correctly to ensure you are safe. As a result, you will maintain your level of intimacy, which boosts self-esteem, improves communication, and strengthens the relationship.
Provides Peace of Mind
Taking an FTC/ TDF will provide you with peace of mind. This benefit can be attributed to broader protection, regular healthcare monitoring, and enhanced trust in the relationship. With that, you can be assured of relationship longevity and commitment because you will be on good terms with your partner. You will also have overall well-being because you and your partner will focus on self-care.
HIV is still a problem in relationships, with many endings as soon as a partner discloses their status. This trend can be attributed to fear and stigma. However, you can Manage HIV effectively with Emtricitabine/Tenofovir in a serodiscordant relationship. Taking it daily and correctly will help you in the ways you have read in this article. As a result, you won’t break your relationship; instead, make it stronger.
