Ten Questions That Every Positive Woman Should Ask Her Doctor

A checklist from Vicki Cargill-Swiren, MD, to take to your next appointment

1.    How’s my overall health?
2.    Do I have any specific problems—and what can I do to address them?
3.    What’s my CD4 count and viral load?
4.    If on meds, are they working? If not, when should I start?
5.    Do I have any STDs?
6.    Is my Pap smear normal? How often do I need one?
7.    What can I do to improve my overall health?
8.    Do you know of any support groups for HIV positive women?
9.    What can I do if I am depressed, using drugs or drinking a lot?
10.    What other issues might be affecting my health?

And three more to ask if you’re having a baby:
1.    How can I prevent HIV transmission to my child?
2.    Are my current HIV meds safe during pregnancy?
3.    Should I have a vaginal delivery or a C-section?