HIV

What is it?

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a viral infection which damages your immune system (the part of your body that fights infection). The damage to your immune system usually happens gradually
HIV can lead to AIDS if is not treated successfully
Treatment nowadays for HIV is very powerful and means that for most people living with HIV, they can feel well, work, have relationships and have children

How do I know I’ve got it?

You may have no symptoms, getting a regular HIV test is therefore important.

For doctors and nurses, HIV could be missed because you may have no symptoms or signs or HIV can look like other conditions.

You need to make sure you get a blood test to test for HIV.

How do you get it?

You can get it from unprotected oral, vaginal or anal sex with someone who has HIV
From sharing needles or other injecting equipment with someone who has HIV
Through contaminated blood products
It can also be passed on from mother to baby

Where can I get tested?

Your GP
GUM clinic

HIV is tested for by a blood test. It can sometimes take 3 months (the window period) for the blood test to become positive if you have been infected with HIV. Therefore the doctor or nurse may ask you to come back for a repeat test when that ‘window period’ is up.

What is the treatment?

There is no cure for HIV
Not everyone needs treatment for HIV, however most people will need treatment at some point
Specific HIV medication is used, if medication is needed people usually take it once or twice a day

Testing sexual partners

It is essential that your sexual partner(s) are tested if necessary. You can discuss this with the health adviser who can help you tell/talk to your partner.

How do I avoid getting HIV?

The best way to prevent all sexually transmitted infections is to practice safer sex. This means using a condom for vaginal, oral or anal sex.

If you inject drugs, don’t share needles or equipment. (link to needlestick)

I think I might have been exposed to HIV, what should I do?

Post Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV (PEP) is when anti-retroviral drugs (drugs used to treat HIV) are given to try to prevent HIV infection in someone exposed to the HIV virus.
You may have been exposed to HIV through sexual contact or from blood to blood contact eg: from a needlestick injury
The drugs need to be given as soon as possible. They are most effective if given within 24 hours of exposure and unlikely to have any effect more than 72 hours after
The drugs must be taken for four weeks
The drugs used can cause serious side-effects so should only be prescribed when the risk of infection is significant. This can be a complicated issue and is done on a case-bu-case basis. If you think you may need post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), it is urgent that you contact us straight away either at a clinic or via the sexual health helplune. If it is outwith clinic hours you should go immediately to Accident and Emergency. For further information see http://www.pepscotland.com

Sexual Health Advice Line - Stirling 01786 446125 Falkirk 01324 613944.

If you are a man who has sex with men, you could be more at risk of becoming HIV positive. Getting an HIV test regularly - ideally at least every six months - provides peace of mind and helps you stay healthy. The earlier HIV is diagnosed, the better the treatment options and the longer your life expectancy. Get tested today at one of the local clinics Central Sexual Health or for further information check out www.hiv-wakeup.org.uk

Some useful websites for more information:

http://www.connectedscotland.co.uk - For gay and bisexual men living with HIV, their partners, family and friends

www.aidsmap.com - Accurate HIV information

www.i-base.info - HIV treatment information

http://www.hivscotland.com HIV Scotland

HIV Scotland has developed the site with the support of the independent digital design agency, 'Whitespace'. Based on thorough research into the needs of professionals and consultation with people living with HIV, the new site acts as a hub for information, policy and consultation.

If you would like to speak to HIV Scotland about the website or any aspect of their work please contact us on 0131 558 3713 or email: info@hivscotland.comMedia: If you would like to speak to HIV Scotland about the website or any aspect of our work please contact Roy on 0131 558 3713.

www.tht.org.uk - Terence Higgins Trust

www.waverleycare.org

All our services are confidential. Only sexual health staff can access your notes.