How soon do I need to start?

It is easy to begin ART at ant time.

Often this is just one or two pills a day.

• ART is usually started soon after testing positive.
• But this is also your choice if you need a little more time.
• Your HIV doctor should talk about ART in your first appointment.

Finding out you are HIV positive?

Getting an HIV diagnosis can still be a shock.

• This might take time to get used to.
• Other services can help, including support from other people living with HIV.

• Just found out you are positive?
• Is starting ART easy?
• When should I start treatment
• Early diagnosis and primary infection

My first reaction was to put off starting therapy for as long as possible. I tried to improve my immune system by stopping smoking and using supplements, until I realised that my best bet was to use ARVs. They are the only way to ensure my long-term survival.

After 8 months of resisting treatment I eventually started ARVs. I do not say that I gave in, but that I became more clever!

— Vladimir, St Petersburg

Last updated: 1 September 2024.