I’m ‘HIV Possible’ Too — Tamar Braxton PrEP Revelation Matters
I’m Taking HIV PrEP Like Tamar Braxton — Because My Sexual Pleasure Matters [Op-Ed] [Op-Ed]
Tamar Braxton, the iconic R&B singer, songwriter, and reality TV star, has always been known for her transparency, and her latest Instagram Live video is no different. In a candid and heartfelt conversation with her followers, Tamar opens up about her decision to take anti-HIV PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) medication. She shares that this is part of her ongoing commitment to prioritizing her health while navigating the dating world in Atlanta. Recently separated from her ex, Jeremy Robinson, Tamar is re-entering the dating scene with a clear focus on being open about her health decisions, and she’s using her platform to encourage others to take charge of their own sexual health.
Tamar’s decision to be open about her use of PrEP is an important one, especially in light of the growing HIV rates among Black women. According to the CDC, in 2022, among females, most HIV infections were attributed to heterosexual contact (83%). Additionally, in 2022, Black/African American women accounted for 50% of all new HIV diagnoses among cisgender women in the U.S, dispelling the myth that HIV is only a concern for specific demographics. Tamar’s openness not only prioritizes her health but also encourages a larger conversation about HIV prevention that includes women—particularly Black women.
With cities like Atlanta, where the HIV rate is higher than the national average, having honest conversations about sexual health is more crucial than ever. Tamar is helping to normalize these discussions, and in doing so, she’s empowering her audience to take control of their sexual health.
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As a 40-year-old, cisgender, sexually active, heterosexual Black woman, I also understand the importance of HIV prevention. As a sex educator, I am focused on opening up conversations about sex, pleasure, and everything in between. While I’m HIV negative, I consider myself HIV possible, meaning that anyone can contract HIV if they aren’t intentional about prevention. For me, sexual health and pleasure are connected, and I want to make sure I’m practicing safe sex while also prioritizing my sexual satisfaction.
When I first learned about PrEP, I was shocked to realize that it was an option for women. Even more concerning was the fact that most women—especially Black women—were unaware of it. As someone working in the sexual wellness space, I assumed I was well-informed, yet I didn’t discover PrEP until just a few years ago. Up until then, the conversation around PrEP had largely centered on men, particularly gay men, with very few discussions about its use among women—especially cisgender women. This gap in awareness is troubling, particularly given the rising rates of HIV among Black women.
We are seeing a disturbing increase in new HIV diagnoses, yet the prevention tools and resources available to us are not being communicated in the same way they are to other communities. For example, Black individuals make up only 14% of PrEP users, but represent 42% of new HIV diagnoses. Furthermore, while women make up 19% of new HIV diagnoses, they only account for 8% of PrEP users. This disparity highlights the urgent need for more inclusive conversations about HIV prevention and better access to resources for women, particularly Black women.
This makes it even more critical for women to know about the options available for HIV prevention, including PrEP. After learning about it, I made the decision to start taking PrEP to protect myself. As a sexually active adult, I knew it was my responsibility to take control of my sexual health. I wanted to ensure that I was doing everything I could to prevent HIV, especially since not all partners may be comfortable sharing their HIV status or whether they’ve been tested. By incorporating PrEP into my routine, along with other safe sex practices, I feel more secure and able to fully enjoy my sexual experiences.
Starting PrEP wasn’t just about being informed; it was about having the right support. I worked closely with my doctor, someone I trust, to figure out which PrEP option was best for me. I also did my own research so I could have an informed conversation about the different options available. There are several types of PrEP, which means there are choices that can fit different lifestyles and routines. For me, it was essential to find a method that worked seamlessly with my busy life.
Taking PrEP has given me peace of mind and a stronger sense of control over my sexual health. It’s one of the ways I can ensure my protection while enjoying intimacy. But even more than that, it’s been empowering to advocate for my health and to help normalize the conversation around HIV prevention. Many women don’t even realize they have this option, which is why I’m sharing my experience and am grateful that Tamar shared hers. I hope that by opening up, more women—especially Black women—will feel encouraged to ask questions and consider PrEP as a viable option for their own sexual health.
If you’re considering PrEP, I encourage you to talk to your doctor and learn more about it. Make sure to do your own research and speak to others who are already using PrEP to get their perspective. It’s important to advocate for yourself and understand all the prevention options available to you. The more we talk about HIV prevention openly, the more empowered we become to protect ourselves and our partners.
For more information, check out resources from the CDC and I Am HIV Possible, local health organizations, or your healthcare provider. Knowledge is key to making informed decisions, and together, we can help spread awareness about PrEP and HIV prevention.
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