Wondering how you can make a difference? It’s actually pretty easy. There are a lot of roles that need to be filled when joining the fight to end STIs and HIV, and we’re here to help you find yours. Talking about STIs and HIV is the first step to progress. The conversation may feel awkward, but we’ve got tips on how to get the conversation started:
Before you take the next step and have sex in a new relationship, know your status. Knowing your status is great for your partner and empowering for you.
With a once-daily pill or a bimonthly shot, you can be 99% protected against HIV. Ask your health care provider if you have a high risk for HIV and if PrEP is right for you.
In case of emergency, take PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) or doxy-PEP within 72 hours of potential exposure to prevent HIV and STIs.
End the stigma, stop misinformation, and get conversations started.
Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U). If you’re living with HIV, treatment will lower your viral load so you can live a healthy life. Treatments for STIs usually take 5-10 days.
Everyone needs to be tested. When you normalize knowing your status, you let everyone know how important it is. Get tested.
STI and HIV education has expanded. Learn the real facts like how they are manageable with treatment and how anyone who is sexually active can get them.
Talking about health is hard. Talking about sexual health is harder. A support system is crucial. Ask questions and learn the facts.
Encourage taking PrEP to prevent HIV, especially if your loved one is at risk.
If your loved one is STI or HIV positive, prompt them to get help.
There’s a lot of misinformation about HIV, but we can stop it by speaking up.
Test and normalize testing as part of a well-rounded health routine. When we all know our status, we all help end HIV.
Support takes different forms. Help and volunteer when and where you can.
Brush up on your knowledge and keep sources on hand by visiting our FAQs.
Being an advocate for HIV means getting out there and doing some work! Donate money or supplies to an organization.
There are plenty of opportunities for you to give time to those looking for aid and support.
Doing your civic duty is crucial for you, your country, and the community you want to support. Make sure you’re registered to vote.
Misinformation causes stigma. Share facts to bust HIV myths. You can find helpful facts and education.
