Everything you need to know before you join
PositiveSingles is the longest-running online community for adults living with herpes, HIV, HPV and other STIs. Here is how it works, step by step.
Who is PositiveSingles for?
The community brings together adults at very different stages — whether you are living with an STI, dating someone who is, or simply looking for people who understand.
People living with an STI
Adults diagnosed with herpes (HSV-1 or HSV-2), HIV, HPV, hepatitis or another STI who want to date or connect with others who understand their experience.
Open-minded singles
People who do not have an STI but are open to dating someone who does, and who want a community built on honesty and mutual respect.
Anyone looking for community
Those looking for friendship, peer support, or simply a space where they can talk openly about their diagnosis without fear of judgment.
Getting started, step by step
From learning about the community to building your first connections — here is the journey at a glance.
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Learn about the community
Read through this guide to understand what PositiveSingles offers and who it is designed for. Getting informed helps you decide whether it is the right fit for you.
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Continue to the platform
When you are ready, follow the registration link from this site. This independent Canadian site provides information only — registration and all member features take place on the partner platform.
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Create your profile
Sign up with a username rather than your real name. You control what appears on your profile, and you can complete it gradually as you become more comfortable.
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Set your privacy preferences
Configure who can view your profile and photos, enable anonymous browsing, and set up private albums. Privacy settings can be adjusted at any time.
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Browse and connect
Explore member profiles, send winks, and use the community features — discussions, blogs, and interest groups. Free accounts can receive and reply to certain messages; premium unlocks broader communication.
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Build trust at your own pace
There is no pressure to share personal details or meet in person before you are ready. The community is designed for connections that develop comfortably over time.
Review current plan details on the partner platform before relying on a feature, because availability can change. Medical questions belong with qualified sources in our Canadian STI information directory.
What can you do on PositiveSingles?
Some features are available to all registered members at no cost. Others require a premium subscription. Compare the summary below with our fuller membership options guide.
| Feature | Free | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Browse profilesSearch members by location, condition, interests and more. | ||
| Send winksLet someone know you are interested without committing to a message. | ||
| Send messagesInitiating messages to other members requires a premium account. Free members can reply to certain messages they receive. | — | |
| Advanced filtersPremium members can filter by more detailed criteria to narrow their search results. | — | |
| Community discussionsParticipate in forums, read blogs and engage with interest groups. | ||
| Private photo albumsUpload photos to a private album and share access only with members you choose. |
Feature availability may change. Visit PositiveSingles.com for current details.
Privacy controls overview
PositiveSingles offers a layered set of tools designed to let you control your visibility and the information you share.
Username
Display a chosen username instead of your real name at all times.
Private photo albums
Control exactly who can view your photos by granting access individually.
Photo masking
Blur your photos until you decide to reveal them to a specific member.
Profile visibility
Choose who can find and view your profile, including options to hide it completely.
Anonymous browsing
Browse other profiles without leaving a notification that you visited.
Location controls
Keep precise addresses and routines private while sharing only the location context you choose.
Hidden conversations
Keep specific message threads out of your main inbox view.
Blocking and reporting
Block members from contacting you and report concerns to the platform team.
Photo verification
An optional step that helps confirm your photos resemble you — it does not verify medical history or personal background.
Safe first meetings
When you feel ready to meet someone in person, a few straightforward steps can help you feel more confident.
Use voice or video chat before agreeing to meet in person.
Choose a public place for any first meeting.
Arrange your own transport so you can leave independently.
Trust your instincts — if something feels off, it is fine to step back.