Understanding HIV

What is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that can weaken your immune system. Without treatment, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). The good news? With today’s treatments, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives.

How is HIV Transmitted Among Gay Men?

Unprotected Sex

HIV is most commonly transmitted among gay men through unprotected sex. This includes:

  • Anal Sex: The lining of the rectum is thin, making it easier for HIV to enter the body during unprotected anal sex. Receptive anal sex (being the bottom) carries a higher risk than insertive anal sex (being the top), but both are risky without protection.

Myths About HIV Transmission

  • Casual Contact: HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact, such as hugging, shaking hands, or sharing utensils.
  • Kissing: HIV is not transmitted through saliva, so kissing is safe.
  • Public Facilities: HIV cannot be spread through toilet seats, swimming pools, or other public facilities.

There are many ways to prevent HIV and STIs. Here's a rundown of what you need to know. 


Condoms

Using condoms while having sex is still one of the best ways to avoid picking up any STIs, becoming HIV-positive or passing on HIV. Make sure you use plenty of water-based lube too. Stay away from Vaseline, baby oil and spit – they will make the condom rip.

For more information about condoms and lube, visit www.lgbthero.org.uk/condoms-and-lube.

WATCH: Me. Him. Us - condoms


Testing

All sexually active gay men should test for STIs at least once a year. If you are having sex with new partners then you should test more frequently. Test for HIV too when you’re there. It takes about two weeks for most STIs and four weeks for HIV to show up in a test. 

To find your nearest GUM clinic, visit www.nhs.uk/service-search/sexual-health/find-a-sexual-health-clinic

WATCH: HIV testing


Treatment (U=U)

If you are diagnosed with HIV you will be put on treatment that will contain the virus in the body. Within a few short months the virus should become undetectable (U=U), this means, once undetectable you cannot pass on the virus to others through sex. However using condoms will further reduce the risk of passing on STIs. 

For more information on HIV, being diagnosed and support services for men living with HIV, visit www.lgbthero.org.uk/pages/category/living-with-hiv.

WATCH: What you need to know about HIV-undetectable and viral load 

PrEP

PrEP means Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, and it’s the use of anti-HIV medication to keep HIV-negative people from becoming infected. PrEP has been shown to be safe and effective. A single pill taken once daily, it is highly effective against HIV. The medication interferes with HIV’s ability to copy itself in your body after you’ve been exposed. This prevents it from establishing an infection and stops you becoming HIV-positive.

PrEP is free on the NHS. Contact your local GUM clinic and ask them about PrEP >> www.nhs.uk/service-search/sexual-health/find-a-sexual-health-clinic

You can also source your own PrEP. You can find information about where to buy generic PrEP by visiting www.iwantprepnow.co.uk.

WATCH: PrEP 


PEP

PEP is a month-long course of HIV medication that can stop you becoming HIV-positive if started within 72 hours after sex (the sooner you start taking it the better). If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, contact your local GUM clinic or go to an A&E.

For more info on PEP, visit www.lgbthero.org.uk/pep.

WATCH: What is PEP?


Education

Knowing how HIV and STIs are transmitted is important. One way to stop HIV and STIs is to keep up to date with the latest news and information about HIV, STIs and safer sex.

For more information, visit https://www.lgbthero.org.uk/Pages/Category/hiv and https://www.lgbthero.org.uk/Pages/Category/stis


Mental health

No matter what advice we give you about how to stop HIV and STIs, if your emotional health is not good you may find it harder to care about protecting your sexual health. So if you are feeling down, experiencing low self-esteem or have symptoms of depression then it’s best to talk to a professional who can help you get back on track.

For more information on how to look after your mental health, or to find support services, visit www.nhs.uk/mentalhealth.


Resources and Support

Community Support Groups

Join local or online support groups to connect with others, share your experiences, and find support.

Educational Resources

Emergency Contact

If you need urgent help or support, contact the National AIDS Trust helpline at 0808 800 6013.

FAQs

How often should I get tested for HIV?
It's a good idea to get tested at least once a year, or more often if you have multiple sexual partners, engage in unprotected sex, or share needles.

Can HIV be cured?
Currently, there’s no cure for HIV, but it can be managed effectively with medication.

What should I do if I think I've been exposed to HIV?
Seek medical advice immediately. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a medication that can prevent HIV if started within 72 hours of exposure.