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A major goal of HIV treatment is getting your viral load to undetectable. Undetectable means that there is so little virus in the blood that a lab test can’t measure it. According to research, taking HIV treatment as prescribed and getting to and staying undetectable prevents HIV from being spread through sex.
For many people living with HIV, getting to an undetectable viral load is a key step in their treatment journey. But starting and sticking with treatment is the only way to get there. And reaching that milestone can provide important health benefits for you and others within the community.
So, stick with it to help you stay on track to undetectable and be proud that you are taking steps to manage your HIV.
Find out ways to stick with treatment
We have defined a few key terms that can be helpful to know as you are starting with treatment.
People featured are compensated by Gilead.
WOMAN: If you’ve been diagnosed with HIV, you may not be sure what to expect. Over time, you’ll learn more about what it means to live with HIV. Want to know one of the most important things to learn about? When taking HIV treatment as prescribed, U equals U is possible. U equals U. That stands for “Undetectable equals untransmittable.” Being undetectable means there’s so little HIV in the blood that it can’t be measured by a laboratory test. It’s scientifically proven. Research shows that a person living with HIV who gets to and stays undetectable by taking treatment as prescribed can prevent transmitting HIV to their sexual partners. So, as long as you get to and stay undetectable, you can’t pass HIV through sex.
U equals U is an empowering concept—it can help keep you motivated to stay on treatment and can offer you the chance to approach sex and relationships without the fear of transmission. After all, U equals U isn’t just about your health. It’s about your partners’, too. Now and in the future. And it’s not just about you. Understanding U equals U is valuable for everyone, regardless of your status. Learning about the benefits of HIV treatment can help play a role in reducing stigma within our communities. Ask your healthcare provider about U equals U and what it can mean for you.
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Current research shows that taking HIV treatment as prescribed and getting to an undetectable viral load and staying undetectable prevents transmitting HIV to others through sex. “Undetectable” means there is so little virus in the blood that a lab test can’t measure it. Another way to say that is U=U (undetectable=untransmittable).
For many people living with HIV, U=U is an empowering and encouraging message. It has helped destigmatize living with HIV, spread awareness that today’s treatments are effective, and helped encourage people to continue taking their treatment as prescribed. It’s also an important reminder that HIV does not have to stop you from living a longer and heathier life.
Learn about starting treatment
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