Abstract
Objective: To analyze the meaning of the HIV-positive diagnosis for men and its possible emotional repercussions. Methods: This is a qualitative study. The collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews, recorded after consent with 20 men, in the period from January to March 2019 in a secondary care service located in the state of Ceará. The analysis was divided into two phases, one thematic and one interpretative, the theoretical referential of Symbolic Interactionism was used. Results: From the analysis of the statements the following categories were identified: rejection and the omission in living with HIV infection, which is divided into two perspectives in relation to the process of living with HIV and the meaning of having HIV before and after the in-depth knowledge of the disease. Conclusion: There are still difficulties related to the level of knowledge of the disease, the stigma and the omission of HIV. However, it is possible, as reported, to change the meaning.