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HIV Prevention Tips for LGBTQ Individuals
What is HIV?
HIV otherwise known as Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a form of Sexually Transmitted Disease or STI that targets the body’s immune system. The immune system fights microorganisms that cause infections and diseases in the body. In this case, HIV attacks the immune system making the body more vulnerable to opportunistic infections. Without treatment, HIV can develop into AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a serious condition where the body’s immune system has severely deteriorated and is no longer potent to fight infections.
HIV remains an alarming public health issue that affects the LGBTQ community, especially gay men. But while there is no cure yet, the field of medicine particularly, infectious diseases, has made promising advancements that make HIV more manageable and significantly reduce transmission. The continued efforts for HIV medication and treatment have reversed the landscape of HIV topic over the years. However, it’s still vital to know how this virus is transmitted and how prevention plays a role in reducing exposure to it.
Inspired by our dedication to protecting LGBTQ individuals from all forms of diseases including HIV, Inspire Recovery discusses this topic with the hope of strengthening awareness about HIV. It too offers preventative tips friendly for LGBTQ individuals.
A Glimpse into the History of HIV
HIV has long been an epidemic. The first HIV cases were found in the 1950s following reported cases of AIDS in the 1980s–mostly homosexuals. These alarming discoveries inspired medical professionals to work hard to reverse the effects of this virus. Fortunately, their efforts paid off after transformative medications were discovered to prevent transmission and delay HIV production in the body.
Understanding HIV Risks
The transmission of HIV can be possible through several mediums. Unprotected sex, sharing needles, breastfeeding, and mother-to-child during childbirth are the most common channels of transmission. Moreover, HIV is also known to be prevalent among LGBTQ individuals, particularly, gay men and transgender women. This higher risk is induced by various factors such as social stigma, limited access to healthcare, and risky sexual behavior such as chemsex. Now, let’s uncover some helpful tips for reducing transmission moving forward.
PrEP and PEP: The Game-Changers in HIV Prevention
Other than medications that prevent HIV from growing in the body, certain prophylaxis have also been discovered to reduce the risk of transmission. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) are two of the most effective medical advancements in HIV prevention. While these medications are proven effective, observing safe sex practices is still recommended to reduce transmission.
- PrEP: Initially approved by the FDA in 2012, PrEP is a daily medication dose that reduces HIV transmission to 99% (as per CDC). It’s best recommended to be taken by sexually active persons who engage in sexual activities weekly to a daily basis, or those with multiple sexual partners. It is also given to reduce risks during condomless intercourse.
- PEP: First promoted by medical experts in 1997, PEP is another form of HIV prophylaxis that is considered an emergency pill taken within the first 72 hours after risky exposure. It is a short treatment best advice to prevent the risk of HIV transmission among less sexually active individuals. It is as effective as PrEP.
Safe Sex Education: The Role of Communication and Protection
Practicing safe sex is one of the most effective ways to prevent HIV. Here’s how:
Here’s how effective safe sex practices are in preventing HIV transmission:
- Condoms and Dental Dams: Condoms otherwise known as rubbers, are typical STI barriers. Commonly paired with water-based lubricants, condoms are known to be highly effective protection from getting STIs such as HIV. Likewise, dental dams are latex-based materials applied to one’s mouth to reduce transmission during oral sex. However, the latter is not as common as condoms.
- Open Communication: Being open about your sexual health and history with your partners helps build trust and attracts informed decisions. Being honest about your body count could help.
- Reducing the Number of Sexual Partners: STIs are common among people engaging in sex with multiple partners. This risky behavior increases the tendency to catch HIV. Limiting partners or knowing your partner’s sexual health status would help reduce transmission.
Regular Testing and Early Detection
The healthcare sector has been promoting regular HIV testing, especially for those who are at high risk. This campaign helps reduce the number of infections by treating HIV patients until their viral load is undetectable. In addition, early detection in the concept of HIV also lowers the chances of getting patients to AIDS stage– the final and most fatal stage of HIV infection. Once detected early, an HIV patient should urgently start ART (Anti-Retroviral Therapy) to achieve the U=U (undetectable=untransmittable) status.
Depending on the person, HIV testing can be done privately in person or they may go to testing centers.
Mental Health and HIV Risk
Is there a possible connection between mental health and HIV risk?
Yes, there may be a big connection between the two. Their present state of mind often influences a person’s sexual behavior. An LGBTQ person experiencing depression, anxiety, or societal trauma may resort to the use of drugs or substances during sexual activity, which can harm judgment and expose them to risky sexual behaviors. For instance, a person experiencing depression may be inclined to engage in chemsex, this behavior puts the person at risk of catching STIs. In this case, Inspire Recovery ensures that you get the treatment needed that is unique to your experiences. Mentally and emotionally, we prepare you for future discernments.
Creating Safe Spaces
LGBTQ safe spaces not only help those who are emotionally struggling but are also havens for support in HIV prevention. The stigma towards people with HIV restrains LGBTQ individuals from seeking help or getting tested. Some medical facilities’ unfair treatment of LGBTQ people makes them stop rather than seek help. This scenario may spiral to risky behavior, unconscious about one’s status, which then infects more people.
Inspire Recovery’s Role in Prevention and Healing
As a strong LGBTQ ally, Inspire Recovery understands the health issues that are associated with them. We are dedicated to providing a community that does not only accept them for who they are but for what they have, sexual health-wise. Inspire Recovery, is a safe community where no one is treated more special than the others, everyone is treated equally- regardless of status. Driven by our goal to promote a healthy LGBTQ community, we offer HIV counseling, education, and testing. Additionally, we acknowledge the plight of HIV patients and the need for therapy hence, we help them get free anti-retroviral therapy while we take care of their mental and emotional health. This versatility of Inspire Recovery is what makes us the best LGBTQ treatment facility.
Prioritize Your Health with Inspire Recovery
HIV prevention goes beyond just taking precautions– it also tackles making a lifestyle that prioritizes health, safety, and overall well-being. Education, safe habits, and supportive groups are just a few of the components helpful towards achieving good sexual health. If you or someone you love needs guidance on HIV prevention and counseling, mental and emotional health, and recovery, Inspire Recovery is here to help. Your health and happiness matter to us. Take the first step towards a safer, healthier you by calling Inspire Recovery at 561-899-6088. Together, we’ll fight HIV and the stigma it brings.
