Introduction
The incidence and prevalence of HIV infections continue to rise in the UK. Due to the effectiveness of HIV treatment regimens there is now an increasing number of HIV positive individuals, living well, on suppressive antiretroviral treatment. More attention is thus being given to the wider health needs of People living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) including a renewed focus on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs.
The aim of these guidelines is to complement the existing guidance on contained in the British HIV Association (BHIVA) guidelines on the management of HIV in pregnancy, the British Association for Sexual Health & HIV (BASHH) guidelines on the management of sexually transmitted infections in people living with HIV, syphilis and HIV and on post-exposure prophylaxis. It also draws upon reproductive health guidance from the Clinical Effectiveness Unit of the Faculty of Family Planning.
This is the first time that expert guidance from the three key UK specialist organisations has been brought together in one place. Key in the development of these guidelines was the involvement of PLHA and community organisations able to address the specific needs of different PLHA populations and to contribute to the knowledge and evidence for planning. These guidelines have been developed with involvement with PLHA groups and the voluntary sector with representation on the writing committee.
The guidelines have been developed for use by healthcare staff in various disciplines including, gynaecologists, staff in primary care, fertility experts and all those involved in the care of HIV positive individuals. They will also be of use to a wider audience including commissioners, public health specialists and communities or individuals living with and affected by HIV.
Downloads
Non-technical summary
A non-technical summary will accompany the updated guidelines.
Writing group
Dr A Fakoya (Chair), Mr EJ Bernard, Dr A Brown, Ms Polly Claydon, Professor BG Gazzard, Dr C Gilling-Smith, Dr C Lacey, Dr H Lamba, Dr N Mackie, Dr R Nandwani (BASHH), Professor L Sherr, Dr S Wallage
Guideline updates and date of next review
The guidelines are currently undergoing full review.