Myth: People living with HIV can’t have children.
Truth: HIV-positive individuals can have HIV-negative children. When HIV medication is taken as prescribed, the amount or virus in the body (otherwise known as the viral load) can be reduced to very low levels. When virus levels are low, so is the risk of virus transmission during pregnancy and childbirth.
Myth: You can’t live a fulfilling life with HIV.
Truth: It is possible to live a fulfilling life with HIV with the proper treatment plan and support.
Living Well with HIV
Tips for living with HIV:
- Take HIV medication as prescribed
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle that supports healthy eating, exercising, and avoiding harmful substances
- Commit to regular check ups and lab monitoring
- Seek support for mental and emotional health when needed
- Help protect yourself and others by practicing safer sexual activities and avoiding activities with a high risk of HIV transmission
- Prioritize community involvement and advocating for others living with HIV
Fostering Acceptance and Understanding
Living with HIV carries not only physical challenges but also the weight of social challenges. HIV stigma describes the negative attitudes or judgements towards people living with HIV. It can significantly affect an individual’s mental and emotional well-being, leading to isolation, shame, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
Reducing negativity by fostering acceptance and understanding is one way to improve the quality of life
