What to Do If You Tested Positive For HIV

Actual information

Millions of people have HIV, so you're not alone. Most people get at least one STD in their lives, and having HIV or any STD is nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about. It does not imply you are "dirty" or a terrible person.

Finding out you have HIV may be quite upsetting. You may feel angry, humiliated, terrified, or ashamed at first. But you'll probably feel better as time goes on - having a decent support system and seeking therapy may really help. There are medications available to help you stay healthy, as well as other methods for avoiding HIV transmission to anyone with whom you have intercourse. 

People with HIV may form relationships, have sex, and live normal lives with a few precautions.

Although there is no cure for HIV, there are medications that can help HIV patients live longer and better lives. Antiretroviral therapy (ART), or HIV treatment, reduces the quantity of virus in your body (known as viral load). This does two things:

- Slows the effects of HIV in your body, allowing you to remain healthy;

- Reduces or even eliminates your risks of transmitting HIV to sexual partners.

Some patients on ART carry so little virus in their bodies that they cannot transmit HIV to their sexual partners. Even if you feel well right now, consult a doctor as soon as possible to discuss the best strategies to stay healthy. 

Taking care of your emotional wellness is also crucial. It's a good idea to consult an HIV-trained counselor or therapist. There are both online and in-person support groups that may provide you with a safe space to discuss your thoughts with others who understand what you are going through.

It's critical that you inform everyone you're having sex with that you have HIV. It's not an easy topic, but it's a necessary one.

How to Inform Someone You Have an STD

It may be frightening to confess that you have HIV, but talking about it might help to calm your fears. You might ask a close, nonjudgmental friend or family member you trust to keep the talk secret. Counselors and support groups can also provide comfort and guidance on how to communicate to people about your HIV diagnosis. Persons with HIV may face unfair prejudice if they disclose their status to people.

There is no one proper method to explain to your partners about having HIV, but here are some basic guidelines that may assist:

- Try to keep cool and realize that you are not alone in this situation. Millions of individuals with HIV, and many of them are in partnerships. Try to approach the topic with a calm, optimistic attitude. HIV is a health condition that has nothing to do with who you are;

- Know your HIV and AIDS facts. There are many myths surrounding HIV, so study up on the facts and be prepared to address your partner's inquiries. Check out HIV.gov. 

- Inform your partner that there are drugs available that can help you live a long life while preventing HIV transmission to them. Safer sex practices, including condoms and PrEP, can also protect your partner;

- Think about timing. Choose a time when you will not be distracted or interrupted, as well as a private and relaxing environment. If you're anxious, talk it over with a friend who understands your situation or a counselor first, or practice talking to yourself. It may appear unusual, but practicing repeating the phrases aloud might help you figure out what you want to say and feel more secure while speaking with your partner;

- Safety comes first. If you're concerned that your partner would hurt you, you're usually better off sending an e-mail, text, or phone call — or, in extreme situations, not informing them at all. If you believe you are in danger, please call 1-800-799-SAFE or visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website.

Who Is to Blame?

When communicating with your partner, avoid playing the blame game. If one of you tests positive throughout the relationship, it does not always imply that someone cheated. HIV takes a few months to show up on a test, and most people do not experience any symptoms for years.