HIV

What is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections and illnesses. It is carried in the blood and bodily fluids of an infected person and can be transmitted through unprotected sex. This is why HIV is classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

If left untreated, HIV can progress over many years to cause AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). AIDS severely damages the immune system, making even common infections potentially life-threatening.

Although there is no cure for HIV, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, people living with HIV can lead long, healthy lives.

How is HIV transmitted?

HIV is spread through infected bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluid, anal mucus, and breast milk. The most common ways HIV is transmitted include:

Having vaginal or anal sex without a condom or other protection

Sharing unwashed or contaminated sex toys

Less commonly, through oral sex (although the risk is significantly lower)

HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, such as hugging, sharing utensils, or kissing.

Symptoms of HIV

Many people with HIV do not realise they have it because symptoms can be mild or non-existent in the early stages. Within two to six weeks of infection, some people experience flu-like symptoms, including:

Fever

Sore throat

Rash

Fatigue

Aches and pains

Swollen glands

These symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses, so if you believe you’ve been exposed to HIV, it’s important to get tested.

Getting tested for HIV

If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, it’s crucial to get tested as soon as possible. Early diagnosis helps to manage the condition effectively.

You can get an HIV test for free at NHS sexual health or GUM clinics, some GP surgeries, or Terrence Higgins Trust centres. Alternatively, you can purchase a home test kit or visit a private clinic.

HIV testing involves taking a small blood or saliva sample. In some cases, more than one test may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

HIV treatment and prevention

If you believe you’ve been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, you may be eligible for emergency treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). PEP can significantly reduce the risk of infection if started quickly.

If you’re diagnosed with HIV, treatment involves monitoring your “viral load” (the amount of HIV in your blood) and assessing your immune system. When necessary, you’ll begin antiretroviral therapy (ART), which works by preventing the virus from replicating.

By taking ART as prescribed, most patients achieve an undetectable viral load. This means the virus can no longer damage your immune system or be passed on to others.

Living with HIV

Thanks to advancements in treatment, people diagnosed with HIV can live full, healthy lives. If you think you may be at risk of HIV or have any concerns, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with one of our clinicians or visit a sexual health clinic for support.