HIV positive? What happens next and how to stay healthy

TL;DR:

Get confirmatory testing, then start HIV treatment fast.
Daily treatment can make your viral load undetectable.
Undetectable equals untransmittable during sex.
Tell partners with help from health services, not alone.
With care, you can live a long, full life.

First, breathe. You have a clear next step

Finding out you are HIV positive can feel overwhelming. The good news is that HIV is treatable. With the right care, people with HIV can live long and healthy lives. Today is 23 September 2025. What you do in the next few days sets you up for success.

Step 1: Confirm the result and link to care

If you had a rapid test or a single lab test, you need a confirmatory test. Clinics and community programs can do this quickly. Ask to be linked to HIV care the same day. Many programs start treatment right after a positive test, once confirmatory testing is arranged. This reduces stress and improves outcomes.

Step 2: Start antiretroviral therapy as soon as possible

All major health bodies recommend starting HIV treatment right away, no matter your CD4 count. Earlier treatment helps your immune system recover and lowers the chance of passing HIV to others. Your care team may offer a same-day start.

Most people reach an undetectable viral load within about six months of daily treatment, sometimes sooner. Your doctor will check your viral load and CD4 count on a schedule.

Step 3: Learn the message that changes everything — U=U

When you take HIV medicine every day and your viral load stays undetectable, you do not transmit HIV through sex. This is called U=U, or Undetectable equals Untransmittable. It is proven and endorsed by public health agencies worldwide. Keep taking your pills and attending visits to maintain suppression.

Step 4: Use partner services so you are not alone

Telling partners is hard. You do not have to do it by yourself. Partner notification services run by local health departments can notify partners for you without sharing your name. They also offer testing and support to partners. Ask your clinic to connect you. Participation is voluntary in many places, and staff are trained to protect privacy.

What your first 90 days of care usually include

Your first visits cover a few standard checks. Your team may order blood tests, screen for other infections, and start or adjust medicine. Here is a simple plan to keep you on track.

Timeframe	Action	Why it matters
Day 0–7	Confirm HIV test, start ART, pick up 30-day supply	Starting fast protects your health and lowers transmission risk.
Week 2–4	Review side effects, check adherence, treat STIs if needed	Early support helps you stay on treatment and feel better.
Month 1–3	Viral load test to track drop toward undetectable	Most people suppress within about 6 months. Early drops are a good sign.
Ongoing	Vaccines, mental health, nutrition, substance use support	Whole-person care improves outcomes and quality of life.

Your clinician may add tests for hepatitis B and C, TB screening, and pregnancy or contraception counseling as needed.

Treatment basics in plain language

The medicines. HIV treatment uses a mix of drugs in one or more pills. Many first-line regimens include dolutegravir with two other medicines. Your country’s guidelines and your medical history guide the choice. Tell your doctor about other meds and supplements.
Side effects. Many people feel fine. Some have mild nausea, sleep changes, or headaches during the first weeks. Report strong or lasting symptoms. Your team can switch medicines if needed.
Adherence tips. Take your pills at the same time each day. Use a phone alarm, pillbox, or app. Refill before you run out. Missing doses can let the virus grow and may lead to resistance.
Viral load and CD4. Viral load shows how much virus is in your blood. CD4 shows the strength of your immune system. The goal is an undetectable viral load.

Sex, pregnancy, and family planning

Sex. If you are on treatment and your viral load is undetectable, there is zero risk of passing HIV through sex. Condoms still help prevent other STIs.
Pregnancy. People with HIV can have healthy pregnancies. Early and consistent treatment lowers the chance of passing HIV to the baby to very low levels. Work with an experienced clinician before conception or as soon as you know you are pregnant. Local guidance differs on infant feeding. Follow your clinician’s advice for your setting.
Birth control. Some HIV medicines interact with hormonal methods. Ask about options that fit your regimen and plans.

Daily life, work, and travel

Work and school. Most people continue normal routines. HIV is not spread by casual contact, sharing dishes, or touching. Employers and schools in many countries must protect against discrimination. Laws vary. Seek local legal advice if needed.
Travel. Carry your medicines in original packaging and a copy of your prescription. A few countries still have entry limits for people with HIV. Check official sources before travel. Keep doses on schedule across time zones.
Vaccines. Stay up to date with routine vaccines. Some live vaccines depend on your CD4 count. Your clinician will advise the safe schedule for you.

Common questions

Will I need treatment forever?
Yes. Stopping can let the virus rebound. Long-term treatment is safe and effective for most people.

Can I have children?
Yes. With treatment and guided care, the chance of passing HIV to a baby is very low. Plan with your care team.

What about breastfeeding?
Advice differs by country. In some settings, breastfeeding with ART is supported. In others, formula is advised. Follow local guidance from your clinician and health ministry.

How long will I live?
With treatment and routine care, life expectancy is near normal. Staying undetectable is key.

A quick checklist for today

Book confirmatory test if not done yet.
Ask for same-day treatment.
Set a daily pill reminder.
Save clinic numbers and pharmacy hours.
Ask your clinic to connect you with partner services.
Schedule your first viral load test.

Why it matters

HIV care today is simple and effective. Daily pills can make your viral load undetectable. Undetectable means you do not pass HIV through sex. This protects you and your partners, reduces stigma, and moves the world toward the 95-95-95 goals for testing, treatment, and viral suppression. Your steps today help you and help your community.

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