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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Disclosing My Status

A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Durban, ZA

I would like to know how can I tell my 9 year old about my HIV status. I don't even know how to explain the pills that I am taking.

July 10, 2019
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A myHIVteam Member

it is much easier telling a 9 year old than an adult. if you still dont feel comfortable telling your child about your status, just tell them you take your pills for a blood disorder without going into detail. then when you feel like disclosing do it then.

July 10, 2019 (edited)
A myHIVteam Member

That’s exactly what I tell my friends and family that totally won’t understand HIV. They only hear AIDS and are terrified of you. It’s because of not being educated

July 10, 2019
A myHIVteam Member

@Jowelweeks, they learn about it at school
though and I m thinking maybe she will understand

July 10, 2019
A myHIVteam Member

You just have to explain to your nine-year-old that you made some mistakes and had some unprotected sex I'm sure she's old enough to understand that and because someone was impacted you don't know who you became infected that doesn't mean you're going to die you're taking your pills for under control you will be there for her house explained sex to her because she's going to be old enough soon and experiment herself and protection after that any questions she has you have to answer and be truthful she will understand she won't love you any less it may take her time to adjust but she will adjust and she will love you as much hugs good luck

July 19, 2019
A myHIVteam Member

My kids don’t know my status either and they’re both over 18 I tell them my pills are for keeping my liver healthy I don’t think I would ever tell them

July 19, 2019

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