Conclusion

In addition to learning as much as possible about HIV, treatment options, and the many conditions discussed in this booklet, it's important to take care of yourself emotionally. For many women, HIV is just one of many daily struggles. Poverty, addiction, and violence are common. While we're often talking about physical health in HIV, we rarely talk about the grief, loss, fear, and isolation so many positive women feel at one point or another. Without support, these feelings can seem overwhelming. Regardless of where you're at, we encourage you to reach out and find support wherever you can.

There are lots of unanswered questions about HIV, especially for women, and no clear answers about the best ways to treat or live with it. Until we have better answers, we need to keep pressuring researchers, doctors, activists, and our own organizations to take an active interest in our experience. We encourage all women reading this booklet to reach out to other positive women, and, most importantly, keep asking questions of your doctors, other people with HIV, treatment educators, whoever! The more you know, the better you'll be able to advocate for yourself and other people living with HIV.