HIV Testing, Prevention, and Management in Gangnam


Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system. While a diagnosis of HIV was once viewed as life-threatening, modern medical advancements have transformed HIV into a manageable chronic condition. With early diagnosis and consistent treatment, individuals with HIV can live long, healthy lives and prevent the transmission of the virus.

Understanding HIV and Transmission


HIV is primarily transmitted through specific bodily fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. Transmission occurs most commonly through unprotected sexual contact or sharing injection drug equipment.

  • Stages of Infection:
  • Acute Infection: Early stage (2-4 weeks after exposure) often presenting with flu-like symptoms.
  • Clinical Latency (Chronic HIV): The virus multiplies at low levels; symptoms may be absent for years.
  • AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome): The advanced stage where the immune system is severely damaged, leading to opportunistic infections.

The key advantage of modern HIV care is the ability to achieve an "Undetectable = Untransmittable" (U=U) status through treatment, allowing infected individuals to live normally and eliminating the risk of sexual transmission.


Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention


Our clinic offers confidential testing, as well as comprehensive management and prevention strategies for HIV.

Diagnosis:

  • Blood Tests: HIV is diagnosed via blood tests that detect HIV antibodies, antigens, or the virus itself (NAT). Rapid tests can provide results in minutes, while laboratory tests offer definitive results.

Treatment (ART):

  • Antiretroviral Therapy (ART): ART involves taking a combination of medications daily to suppress the virus, allowing the immune system to recover.

Prevention (PrEP and PEP):

  • PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis): A daily medication taken by HIV-negative individuals at high risk to prevent HIV infection.
  • PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis): Emergency medication taken within 72 hours of potential exposure to prevent HIV infection.


Follow-Up and Monitoring


For individuals living with HIV, regular monitoring of viral load (the amount of HIV in the blood) and CD4 cell counts (immune health indicators) is essential to ensure treatment effectiveness and immune system recovery.


Benefits of Early Diagnosis and Management


  • Improved Health and Lifespan: Effective ART allows individuals with HIV to live long, healthy lives.
  • Prevention of AIDS: ART stops the progression of HIV to AIDS.
  • Elimination of Transmission Risk (U=U): Achieving an undetectable viral load means the virus cannot be sexually transmitted.
  • Effective Prevention Tools: PrEP and PEP significantly reduce the risk of infection.


Is HIV Treatment Safe?


Yes, modern ART is highly safe and effective, with fewer side effects than older regimens. Side effects are generally manageable and diminish over time. PrEP and PEP are also safe when taken as prescribed.

If left untreated, HIV systematically destroys the immune system, leading to AIDS, serious opportunistic infections, and premature death. Early diagnosis and immediate treatment are vital.


What to Expect After Testing and Diagnosis


If you test negative, counseling on prevention options like PrEP will be provided. If diagnosed with HIV, you will receive confidential counseling and begin ART.

With consistent adherence to ART, the viral load will typically become undetectable within 3 to 6 months, and individuals can maintain a robust immune system.


Cost of HIV Services in Korea


The cost of HIV services in Korea varies. While HIV testing is often available for free at public health centers, costs at private clinics include consultation fees and specialized testing.

  • HIV Testing (Rapid or Lab-based): Estimated cost ranges from â‚©50,000 to â‚©100,000 (approximately $35 to $75 USD).
  • ART (Treatment): In Korea, ART is generally covered by the National Health Insurance for diagnosed patients.
  • PrEP and PEP: Costs for PrEP and PEP vary by clinic and medication type. While some government programs may subsidize these, private costs can range significantly, typically requiring consultation fees.


Why Choose Our Clinic for HIV Services?


  • Confidential and discreet consultation and testing services
  • Experienced healthcare professionals specialized in HIV prevention and treatment
  • Comprehensive care, including PrEP/PEP consultation and ART management support
  • Timely and accurate diagnostic testing
  • Multilingual support for international patients


If you’re considering HIV testing or need information on prevention and management, contact our clinic to discuss your options and schedule an appointment. Our experienced team provides compassionate and confidential care.

The female director personally provides care, listening to each patient's story.


01 - One-on-One Personalized Treatment
02 - Post-Treatment Management Syste

03 - Precise Diagnostic Program

Because we understand women, LANTE DBGYN

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