Q: If my partner and I are monogamous and we've tested negative for HIV, is it safe for us to have unprotected sex?

A: This question has a multi-faceted answer. One thing you should make sure of is that the test is accurate. Be sure that you get tested at least 3 and a half months after having sex. You should continue using condoms and wait another 3 months before doing a second test 3 months later since the infection takes 14 weeks after the infection for the antibodies to show up in the bloodstream. Communication during this process is key and language barriers and unbalanced power in a relationship can affect the communication process leading to things like lying about an HIV test result. Using a condom should not be a trust issue, as it is for the protect of both of you from not only HIV, but other STI's such as hepatitis, genital warts, etc. It is therefore recommended that you practice safer-sex in all situations.