Not everyone is comfortable disclosing their status because of the stigma that surrounds HIV.

Intake forms often have a “health history” section, and an additional separate line for HIV status and this furthers the stigma because it’s implying difference by singling out people who live with HIV.

This virus isn’t what it was in the 80s… We have medications like PrEP, PEP, and ART. As healthcare workers (estis, nurses, doctors) and service providers (eg tattoo artists), it might not be our specialties, but you should be aware of these medications and what they do. We should also work towards ending the stigma.

PrEP is for people who are NEGATIVE, but at a higher risk of contracting HIV.

PEP is for people who are negative, but not on PrEP, and might have came into contact with someone who is HIV+ and detectable.

ART (antiretroviral therapy) is for people who are POSITIVE, but makes them undetectable. Undetectable means the viral load in someone’s blood is so low that tests do not detect it (your results would say negative). UNDETECTABLE PEOPLE CANNOT TRANSIT THE VIRUS TO SOMEONE ELSE!!!!

Clearing up misconceptions:

1. Double gloving is an old practice when HIV was not fully understood. Since then, the CDC has updated their recommendations to take regular precautions by single gloving.

2. Even if you come into contact with bodily fluids of someone who is positive, you aren’t guaranteed the virus

3. You cannot get HIV from saliva

4. It is NOT a gay disease. Many people who are straight are living with HIV

5. Your life is NOT over if you contract it; with the medications we have, people live very long, happy lives

If you’re in Canada/USA and would like to get on PrEP, check out @GoFreddie. Most people who use freddie pay $0 and the medications are shipped to you for FREE. This is NOT sponsored!

#nailtech #manicure #hivawareness #endthestigma #dermatology aestheticnurse medicialaesthetician

7/31 Edited to

... Read moreLiving with or being exposed to HIV can indeed be surrounded by stigma, but understanding key medications and precautions can empower both healthcare workers and the general public to approach the subject with confidence and compassion. From my personal experience as a healthcare provider, I've noticed how educating ourselves about HIV management tools like PrEP, PEP, and ART can significantly reduce fear and misconceptions. PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) offers a proactive shield for those at higher risk, helping prevent HIV infection even before exposure. Similarly, PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) acts as an emergency measure for people who might have recently come into contact with the virus but were not on PrEP. ART (Antiretroviral Therapy) is transformative for those living with HIV, rendering the virus undetectable and untransmittable. This means that people adhering to their treatment and maintaining an undetectable viral load pose no transmission risk to others. This fact is not widely known but crucial in fighting stigma. Often, healthcare intake forms isolate HIV status, unintentionally emphasizing difference and fostering stigma. A more integrative approach to health history, where HIV is treated like any other chronic condition, would alleviate this. Another myth debunked by recent CDC guidelines is the need for double gloving among healthcare and service professionals. Current protocols recommend single gloves as standard precaution, reflecting our advanced understanding of HIV transmission risks. Understanding that HIV cannot be transmitted through saliva or casual contact further reduces stigma. Moreover, HIV is not confined to any one community or orientation; it affects diverse individuals globally. For those interested in preventive medication, services like GoFreddie in Canada and the USA provide PrEP at no cost to many users, making prevention more accessible. By embracing accurate knowledge, confronting outdated practices, and fostering open conversations, we can help dismantle the stigma surrounding HIV and support healthy, informed communities.

Related posts

Two strapless tops, one beige and one white, with a twisted knot detail at the bust, are displayed. The image features text promoting "Not too basic CLOTHES THAT look good on ANYONE From Amazon."
A beige matching sweat set, consisting of a long-sleeved crewneck sweatshirt and drawstring shorts with pockets, is laid flat on a light surface. The image includes text "Link in Bio."
Two square-neck tank tops, one white and one black, are shown hanging on wooden hangers against a light background. Both tops appear to be made of a smooth, fitted fabric.
Not too Basic Clothes for EVERYONE
When I’m looking for an outfit to wear to go to work school, or running errands I always tend to go comfy. Any of those tops pair well with jean shorts or just your normal sweatshirts. These sweatsets are INSANELY perfect and everyone needs as well as these skims dupe❤️ Link in Bio** #BackToScho
Mar

Mar

22.4K likes

A hand holds several light brown ashwagandha capsules against a sparkling white background, with text overlayed stating "ASHWAGANDHA is NOT for everyone...".
Several light brown ashwagandha capsules are on a grey textured surface, with text listing benefits: helps with anxiety, helps to sleep better, increases athletic performance, and boosts testosterone.
A hand holds light brown ashwagandha capsules against a sparkling background, with text indicating who may not benefit: girls with PCOS, those with low mood/energy, dysregulated hormones, or improper cycling.
ashwagandha is NOT for everyone…
Is it for you? There’s been a lot of hype around Ashwagandha, so I had to give it a try! First of all, before I implement anything new, like a supplement, into my routine I research it a lot. That’s why I’m able to write on this matter. But I advise you to always do your own research, and co
Sana

Sana

62 likes

Hello everyone💫Lover of fashion, growth, & travel!
Hello everyone!!! Have you ever wondered how to be your most audacious yet authentic and confident self? I definitely relate to that and life is a constant learning and growing experience. You can be 20 and never have learned to drive 🫣 or you can be 80 and never have learned to swim! But that does
Hannah Angela 🦢Digital Diary

Hannah Angela 🦢Digital Diary

6 likes

The book everyone in their 20s should read 🧐
I didn't find this book until I was 26, and I agree with the sentiment most people have when they read this, I just wish I had found this sooner! I read a chapter a day in the morning until I finished the book and I highlighted and marked it all up. This is my second copy that is all nice and c
SB Allred

SB Allred

8 likes

Hey, everyone! I make custom trucker hats. I do my
Custom trucker hats! Etsy Rollinviolation
Lil' Bit Sweet Boutique

Lil' Bit Sweet Boutique

1 like

Do You Have an Inner Monologue - Not Everyone Does
Do You Have an Inner Monologue - Not Everyone Does!
Scott Free Morning Show

Scott Free Morning Show

0 likes

A car interior view of a sunset over mountains, with the text 'Career Advice you need to hear' overlaid, introducing the article's topic.
A laptop displaying images and text, next to a cold coffee, with the advice '1. Under promise, over deliver' and an explanation about exceeding expectations.
A woman taking a selfie in a restroom mirror, accompanied by the advice '2. Building relationships is extremely valuable' and text about networking for opportunities.
Career Advice that EVERYONE Needs to Hear
Whether you have worked your job for a while, or you have just started a new job, here are a few pieces of advice to help you in the workplace! 1. Under promise, over deliver - Getting ahead of a deadline or doing more than what is expected of you will result in much better recognition than not
Emma Godfrey

Emma Godfrey

30 likes

It’s not for everyone ✨
It keeps me going 👏 #weightlosstransformation #fypシ #fitnessjourney #gymmotivation #weightlossprogress
Demi Does It

Demi Does It

605 likes

A close-up of a black wallet filled with various bank cards, with the bold yellow text "Everyone Should have These 6 Bank account" overlaid, introducing the topic.
A graphic on a green background detailing a "Checking Account" for daily expenses and a "Savings Account" for future goals like emergencies or large purchases.
A graphic on a green background explaining a "Retirement Account" for long-term growth assets and an "Investment Account" for growing wealth through various investments.
EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE THESE 6 BANK ACCOUNTS
Everyone should consider having six bank accounts to manage their finances effectively. This structured approach helps individuals allocate funds efficiently and stay on top of their financial goals. If you find this post helpful Please consider FOLLOWING it keeps me motivated to continue wr
Investingashley

Investingashley

3845 likes

A woman in a white oversized t-shirt and dark leggings holds a resistance band in a gym. The image features the title "PERIOD DO'S & DONT'S Gym Girl Edition [ from a CPT ]" and "lemon8 @erikanicole_fit".
A woman in a white t-shirt and headphones stands in a gym. The text reads "DO✓ Go to the gym if you feel up to it. You don't have to pause your lifts if it's unnecessary." and "lemon8 @erikanicole_fit".
A woman in a white t-shirt and headphones points towards dumbbells in a gym. The text states "DON'T✗ Feel guilty if you DO need to take a day or two (or more) off. Periods can be really painful so listen to your body." and "lemon8 @erikanicole_fit".
Not Everyone Is The Same | My Period Do’s & Don’ts
Cycle Syncing is something I don't ever think I'll get behind and I'll tell you why. Every woman's time of the month is different. Some women have extremely harsh periods and need to take a day to a few days off of the gym due to bad cramping, fatigue, mood swings, all kinds of t
Erika Quarles

Erika Quarles

370 likes

good luck everyone!!! 🤍🤍🤍
#model #modeling #modelingtips #howtobecomeamodel
Trinity Nicole Brown

Trinity Nicole Brown

1037 likes

EVERYONE DESERVES A worry free lipstick .
#Lemon8Diary #lemon8diarychallenge Have you ever wanted to go out and not worry about reapplying lipstick? This is me with the same lipstick I applied at 5pm tonight and it’s now 11pm. I’ve eaten, I’ve had drinks, and I kissed my husband. Yet, my lipstick is still on. KVD - Burberry! Is
Kimmie ᨒ↟

Kimmie ᨒ↟

2 likes

See more