Many people who have an HIV test have been worrying unnecessarily. Getting a negative result (which means you are not infected with HIV) can put your mind at rest. If your test result is positive, many things can be done to help you to cope with the HIV positive result and look after your health. If your test is positive, then:
- A doctor can keep an eye on your health. Many people who test positive stay healthy for several years. But if you fall ill, there are many drugs called antiretrovirals that can help to slow down the virus and maintain your immune system. You can also have medicines to prevent and treat some of the illnesses that people with HIV get. You may also have access to trials of new drugs and treatments.
- If you do fall ill, the doctor is going to take your symptoms more seriously if they know that you are HIV positive.
- If you know that you are HIV positive, you can take steps to protect other people. For example, by practising safe sex and informing you past sexual partners.
- Knowing that you have HIV may affect some of your future decisions and plans, for example starting a family.
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