What do the results mean?

Getting Tested for HIV

A negative HIV test result can ease your mind and at the same time act as a “wake up” call to examine the choices you’re making. A positive result requires that you take immediate action that can lead to an equally long and healthy life.

Negative—You do not have HIV: What now?

Positive—You do have HIV: What now?

Take steps to make some changes to ensure that you stay healthy:

  • Practice safe sex: Use condoms to keep yourself and others safe
  • Learn about HIV and how it is—and isn’t—transmitted to others
  • Try to live a balanced lifestyle: Eat healthy and exercise regularly
  • See your doctor regularly and be actively involved in your health—both physical and emotional
  • Get tested on a regular basis

Don’t panic! Lean as much as you can about HIV. A good place to start is with your local community-based HIV/AIDS service organization (ASO) who will recommend that you:

  • Speak to your healthcare provider if you have one to get a referral to a specialist
  • If you don’t have a healthcare provider, your local ASO can help you find one
  • Seek out social support, both from professionals trained to deal with HIV and from trusted friends and family. You do not have to deal with this alone
  • Gather as much information as you can about HIV and its treatments
  • Try to live a balanced lifestyle: Eat healthy and exercise regularly
  • See your doctor regularly and be actively involved in your health—both physical and emotional

Contact your local community-based AIDS Service Organization (ASO) to speak to someone who can answer your questions and help you prepare for the results.

Quick tips

  • When choosing a doctor (if you don’t already have one, ask friends if they can recommend someone). It’s important to feel comfortable. Do you prefer a man or woman? Do you prefer someone direct or more personable?

HIV facts

  • HIV does not only affect gay men and drug users. Anyone who practices at-risk behaviour such as unsafe sex can be infected with HIV. This includes men, women, seniors, and teens.

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