The HIV Podcast

This week Sarah and Jess are diving into the history of STIs! We take you on a whistle-stop tour of humanity’s long, complicated, and occasionally ridiculous relationship with sexually transmitted infections. Expect myths, medicine, and a few moments that will make you grateful for antibiotics.Sources‘Groundbreaking’ HIV prevention programme aims to end transmissions by 2030 | The IndependentSTIs through the centuries – UK Health Security Agency The History of STIs - Broadgate GPSexually transmitted infection - Wikipedia

This week, Sarah and Jess go back to where it all began, uncovering the story of Nora Wattie, the woman who pioneered the foundations of modern contact tracing. They explore how her work shaped public health and also take a diversion into 'period chat'.....enjoy!SourcesNora Wattie - WikipediaFirst doses of HIV prevention drug lenacapavir delivered to Zambia, Eswatini | Reuters

This week Chantelle joins Jess to talk about cabotegravir, the long-acting injectable PrEP that’s changing how people can protect themselves from HIV! And there is also come 'C' word chat, so avoid this episode if it's too soon for festive cheer!Sourceshttps://www.england.nhs.uk/2025/10/nhs-to-roll-out-first-long-acting-injection-to-prevent-hiv/https://www.nice.org.uk/news/articles/first-hiv-prevention-injection-for-people-unable-to-have-daily-prep-recommendedhttps://www.who.int/news/item/14-07-2025-who-recommends-injectable-lenacapavir-for-hiv-preventionhttps://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/sep/24/hiv-prevention-jab-pre-exposure-prophylaxis-prep-lenacapavir-120-poorer-countries-2027https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lenacapavir

This week, Sarah and Jess get into the fascinating world of contact tracing, how it works, why it matters, and what really happens. Oh, and since it’s Halloween, there’s also a quick detour into scary movies and a bit of hot air balloon chat!Sources What is partner notification or contact tracing? • SHL.UK

This week, Sarah and Jess take a curious wander through the origins of sexual health clinics, from the hush-hush beginnings to the open, empowering spaces we know today. Expect all the usual side-chat like why Jess hates collecting prescriptions and what happens when Sarah takes her husband to weddings. Never a dull moment when you're learning about sexual health history with these two!Sources The history of sexual health | ADPHChancroid - Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best PracticeOur Story - MSI Reproductive Choices

In part 2, Sarah and Jess slip into their metaphorical lab coats (don’t worry, no Bunsen burners involved) to find out exactly how PrEP works in the body. Spoiler: it’s less “magic pill” and more “tiny molecular bodyguard” that blocks HIV from setting up shop. Expect easy science, bad analogies, and at least one “ohhhh, that’s clever” moment. If you’ve ever wondered what PrEP actually does after you swallow it, this is the episode that finally explains it, minus the biology degree.Sources What’s the difference between PrEP and PEP for HIV prevention? | aidsmapAbout Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) - NHSHow and when to take Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) - NHS

In the first of two episodes, Sarah and Jess are diving into the world of HIV prevention, and trust us, it’s not as confusing as it sounds once you know your PEP from your PrEP! We’ll be breaking down what each one does, when they’re used, and why DoxyPEP is the newest buzzword in sexual health circles.Sources Dick Donato - WikipediaWhat’s the difference between PrEP and PEP for HIV prevention? | aidsmapDoxyPEP — QueerHealthAbout Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) - NHSHow and when to take Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) - NHSFirst clinical guidelines published on the use of DoxyPEP | Terrence Higgins TrustDoxyPEP & Bexsero - 56 Dean Street - Sexual Health Clinic LondonDoxy-PEP | CNWL Sexual Health ServicesSyphilis cases at highest level for 75 years in England last year | Sexual health | The Guardian

This week Sarah and Jess are exploring what it means to grow older with HIV. From the insights of Sarah’s surprise client survey to discovering who holds the title of the oldest person living with HIV! We would also like to dedicate this episode to Dr Steve Dawson, a remarkable HIV consultant and an even more remarkable person. His work and kindness touched countless lives and he will be missed.HIV The Naked Truth - AboutSourceshttps://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgmzn8802d7oHIV charity hosts nude photography exhibit for World AIDS Day - AttitudeThe Lisbon patient: exceptional longevity with HIV suggests healthy aging as an ultimate goal for HIV care | BMC Infectious Diseases | Full TextA 100-year-old man living with HIV shares his secret to a long life