Positive test result - what happens next?
If your test shows that you are HIV positive you will be
referred to an HIV specialist who will be able to provide further
advice, support and treatment if needed. All of this is free.
Having HIV may be a big shock but remember that it is a medical
condition and there are treatments that can help you stay healthy
and well. There are also specialist support services
available to help you to live well with HIV, these include advice,
one to one counselling, peer support from other people living with
HIV, and support groups and
services.
Relationships
Being HIV positive does not mean that you can't have sex, get
married or have a civil partnership. But if you do test positive it
is important to discuss being HIV positive with current and future
sexual partners. Talking to partners is important so that they can
decide about testing too. Talking about HIV with current or future
partners means that you can make informed decisions together about
reducing risks to each other, for example by using condoms.
It can be difficult to tell people that you have HIV. You can
get support with this from any of the support services listed.