My experience with doctors, gynecologists & nurses - A.J.
We took a vacation, but we’re back! Thanks for tuning in.
Trigger warning: death, suicide.
In my journey with HIV, I have interacted with doctors, gynecologists and nurses whom I’ve had good and bad experiences with. The day I was told I was HIV positive, I almost lost my mind. I got mixed feelings wondering what would happen after. I thought my life had come to an end and I couldn't imagine how I would face the world, my family, my friends. All I remember saying was “my life has come to an end.” Death was the immediate option in my mind.
At that point the nurse thought I would commit suicide. She was very nice and friendly to me, willing to help me digest the news. She tried talking to me, encouraging me and giving me hope. She shared several stories trying to divert my attention from the news of my HIV status. She also booked me for another visit to redo the test because I couldn't believe I was HIV positive. After a week I came back but unfortunately I didn’t see the nurse I was expecting. It turned out to be a bad day for me. The new nurse was heartless, rude and arrogant. I remember at one point she asked me whether she was there when I was contracting the virus and that I should have been careful, and that my carelessness was why I was in that state. I felt bad, hurt and disrespected.
During my journey to pregnancy and childbirth, I had a gynecologist who led a smooth journey for me. I was advised on what to do, my medication intake to lower my viral load to undetectable level, nutrition and stress management. I felt great, appreciated and in safe hands. I got pregnant, carried my pregnancy to term with no major problems, delivered a healthy baby girl who is 7 years old now. She turned out HIV negative which encouraged me to have a second baby two years down the line. I got pregnant again and delivered another healthy girl, she is 5 years old now.
During my clinic visits/reviews, I have had good and positive experience with my doctors and nurses. They have been helpful to me in living positively and healthy.
