Reproductive health
Be sure to get regular checkups with your doctor and your OB/GYN. Important concerns for all women include getting regular Pap smears and mammograms, monitoring bone density if necessary, and being aware of any menstrual irregularities. Other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are also a concern, so make sure you know how to protect yourself against these diseases. If you are not sure what checkups you need or how your health issues can affect HIV treatment, including possible side effects, ask your HCP.
Just because you have HIV, it does not mean that you will have a baby with HIV. If you are pregnant now, or want to get pregnant in the future, speak with your HCP about ways to help reduce the likelihood of passing HIV to your baby.
The DHHS has guidelines for the care and treatment of pregnant women living with HIV. You can go to the DHHS Web site for more information.
Part of having a healthy baby includes eating healthy, exercising as directed by your HCP, getting plenty of rest, and keeping your appointments with your HCPs (your HIV doctor and an OB/GYN).
Other conditions that may affect you
As a person living with HIV, it is important to consider other conditions you may have as you choose an HIV medication. HIV medications can have an effect on some conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, hepatitis, or diabetes. Various ethnic groups may also have higher rates of these conditions. You may want to consider talking to your doctor if you have an existing condition and asking whether other factors, such as your ethnicity, may affect these conditions.
models used for illustrative purposes only
Please consult Full Prescribing Information, including boxed WARNING, Medication Guide, and Important Safety Information for VIRAMUNE.
