Key points at a glance
💊 Medically effective
HIV therapy keeps the virus under control and protects your health in the long term.
🤝 Community matters
Medical guidance, counselling and support will help you get off to a good start.
🛡️ Clarity and protection
With therapy and knowledge, you can have sex without passing on HIV.
✨ Average life expectancy
Thanks to modern HIV treatments, you can now live just as long and healthy a life as people without HIV.
What does ‘HIV-positive’ mean?
Being HIV-positive means that the HIV virus has been detected in your body. It does not mean that you are ill or have AIDS. Thanks to modern medicine, HIV can be treated very effectively. The treatment ensures that the virus can no longer multiply. This means you stay healthy and cannot pass the virus on during sex.
First steps after diagnosis
If you receive the diagnosis, take some time to come to terms with it. Shock, fear or anger are completely normal reactions. It is important to seek medical support now, ideally at a specialist HIV clinic. There, you will not only receive medication, but also counselling and support.
The earlier you start treatment, the better you protect your body. The treatment is simple and well tolerated; one tablet a day is usually enough. Open discussions with doctors will help you to gain confidence and safely manage your journey with HIV.
Living with HIV today
With modern antiretroviral therapy – ART for short – you can lead a long, healthy life with HIV. The medicines reduce the viral load in the blood to such a low level that it is no longer detectable. This is known as the U=U principle (undetectable = untransmittable): anyone receiving successful treatment cannot pass on HIV through sex.
Side effects are rare, and regular check-ups ensure the treatment remains effective. You can work, exercise, travel and have relationships. HIV is now easily managed and is no reason to restrict your life.
Sexuality, relationships and protection
Sexuality is a part of life, even with HIV. If your viral load is undetectable, you cannot pass on HIV through sex. However, condoms and regular testing remain important to protect you from other sexually transmitted infections.
Trust, communication and knowledge create a sense of security for you and your partners. This allows you to enjoy intimacy without feeling afraid.
Everyday life and support
HIV treatment will become part of your everyday life, but it does not define who you are. Many people say that, following their diagnosis, they live more mindfully, are more open with themselves and set new priorities. With the right support, you can shape your life the way you want it to be: stable, fulfilling and free.
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive HIV test result mean?
A positive result means that the HIV virus has been detected in your body. This does not mean that you are ill or that you already have AIDS. With today’s medical treatments, HIV can be managed very effectively.
What should I do first after receiving the diagnosis?
First of all, take some time to come to terms with the diagnosis. Shock, fear or anger are normal reactions. The next step is to book an appointment at an HIV specialist clinic, where you will be given medication, advice and support.
How does HIV treatment work, and how often do I need to take my medication?
Modern HIV treatment, known as ART for short, usually consists of one tablet a day. It prevents the virus from multiplying further. As a result, the viral load in the blood falls to such a low level that it is no longer detectable.
If I have HIV, can I still have sex without passing it on to others?
Yes. If the viral load is no longer detectable as a result of treatment, HIV cannot be passed on during sex. This principle is known as U=U: undetectable = untransmittable. Condoms also provide additional protection against other sexually transmitted infections.
Where can I get support if I need someone to talk to?
Counselling is available on a confidential, anonymous and free-of-charge basis, for example via the Gay Health Chat service via live chat, email or telephone. There, you can also find information on health, legal matters and everyday life.
