I was reading your article on my mobile phone and wanted to throw it out the window. First of, I'm really happy your friend Talia is indeed negative. I can't imagine the terror she felt waiting between tests and my heart goes out to her.

I have to say that I'm quite ashamed at these members of my gender. When I was a single man and dating, condoms were always in my pocket. I grew up in the 80's with HIV being in the news 24/7 and it made an impression on me.

Getting HIV and/or getting someone pregnant scared the shit out of me and I never got any static for wearing a condom from my partners. Does barrier-less sex feel good with fluids and stuff everywhere, hell ya but only if both parties consent and know the risks.

I consider it a major red flag if a guy says it makes him go soft or he has some excuse.