For women living with HIV in adulthood, this can include someone who is recently diagnosed, has been living with HIV since adolescence, or may now be a lifetime survivor (those living with HIV since birth). For lifetime survivors the long-term impacts can have additional medical challenges and overlapping health conditions. Accelerated and age-related health concerns occur sooner in the life course. But, no matter when, in this stage there are key components for your physical and mental health and wellbeing to consider. Entering and remaining in care and continuing to take your antiretroviral therapies are essential for wellbeing and reducing HIV’s impact on your overall health. Building a supportive environment includes finding and leaning on your chosen family, peers, and allies who support you, your decisions and empower you to flourish throughout adulthood.
For women living with HIV ages 25-44, some key considerations include:
- Adult Development (body, mind, relationships)
- Support Groups
- Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, Pleasure, and Justice
- Reproductive Decision Making
- Perimenopause (prep for menopause)
- HIV Criminalization
- The 5 W’s of sharing your story (disclosure)
- Advocate opportunities
- Ryan white, ADAP, and local HIV services
- Co-occurring opportunities
- Provider relationship
- Case management
- Transitioning into primary and specialty care
- Thinking and planning ahead: Life insurance, retirement, permanency, living will, health directives, power of attorney