For men with HIV
There's information for those of us who are HIV positive in all parts of the HardCell site. But here are some important points.
PEP
If you've had sex with someone and it's put them at risk of getting HIV you should know all about Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). It's a treatment that can stop HIV infection if started quickly enough (within 24 hours is best, and no later than 72 hours). Find out more at www.chapsonline.org.uk/pep.
Recently diagnosed
Terrence Higgins Trust has created a website for gay men who have recently found out they have HIV. The site includes video clips and online diaries of recently diagnosed men. There's also practical information and tips about having HIV, telling others you're positive, medical issues, sex and relationships, and what support is out there. www.whatnext.tht.org.uk/
Mixed HIV status relationships
Support and advice for men in relationships where one has HIV and the other doesn't can be found at www.chapsonline.org.uk/together.
The law
Important information about HIV and the law, especially about recent prosecutions for infecting others is on the Terrence Higgins Trust website at www.tht.org.uk/prosecutions.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Men with HIV (especially those who don't use condoms) make up large numbers of cases of the serious infections hepatitis C, LGV and syphilis. To learn more check the individual pages on these infections:
You can read about the chance of picking up different, more dangerous strains of HIV. This page also has the facts about things some men do to reduce the risk of passing on HIV. These include poz men pulling out before coming, taking the passive role, not using condoms if their viral load is low or undetectable and so on.
Getting sexually transmitted infections when you already have HIV risks damaging your health and makes it more likely you'll give HIV to others. Find out how STIs can affect you if you have HIV.
Your rights
The THT website has information on your rights (including confidentiality, making complaints and dealing with discrimination) when using the Health Service, including GPs, dentists, sexual health/HIV clinics and other hospital departments. See www.tht.org.uk/healthcarerights.
Want information and support?
Terrence Higgins Trust (THT)
Provides information on a wide range of issues for people with HIV. The THT Direct helpline gives support and advice, and knows about services local to you.
THT Direct: 0845 12 21 200
Terrence Higgins Trust runs regular free courses in London for gay men living with HIV to give them the skills to manage their health and stay active.
The Positive Self Management Programme covers topics that include taking HIV treatments, dealing with fustration, fear, fatigue, pain and isolation, as well as exercise and healthy eating, and communicating better with family, friends and health staff. Each course meets one evening a week for seven weeks. For details call 0207 812 1773.
NAM
Provides more detailed treatments information and publishes a free newsletter, AIDS Treatment Update.
Telephone: 020 7840 0050 (office number)
HIV i-Base
Another good source of treatment Information, with a treatments helpline open Monday to Wednesday 12pm to 4pm.
Treatments phoneline: 0808 800 6013
