The Jamaica Star :: Health :: Life plans crushed?

Dear Counsellor:

I am 21 and infected with HIV. I always had a lot of plans. I knew what I wanted out of life but now that is all crushed because I'm HIV infected. I blame myself because I should never have had sex before I was married. Please talk to me. I feel hopeless. I need help.

Worried/Frustrated

Dear Worried/Frustrated:

I'm really sorry to hear that you are infected with HIV. I must tell you though that there are reasons to be hopeful in the face of the HIV epidemic. Doctors today have a better understanding of how HIV works and how to treat the HIV-related illnesses.

Coping with HIV means getting on with your life. If often means living with the uncertainty that a life-threatening diseases poses. Coping is only one of the challenges you will face. You also have the challenges of being happy, productive, and optimistic. You must, like others, develop a plan of action for living with HIV. This will help you maintain hope for the future while living your daily life and caring for your health. Be easy on yourself and take time in dealing with the issue of a positive HIV status. There are many support groups available to help you cope with the emotional, spiritual and physical concerns you may have.

Pimpled parts

Dear Counsellor:

I noticed a pimple on my vagina and a similar one is on my boyfriend's penis. It is very painful and occasionally we will have smelly discharges from our sex organs. Do you think it is something to worry about?

Worried Girlfriend

Dear Worried Girlfriend:

A pimple on the penis/vagina and discharge smelly or not is something that you should not take lightly. Both of you must see a doctor as soon as possible, so that you can be properly diagnosed and treated. You should ask your doctor to explain the cause of those symptoms so that you can prevent getting them in the future.

You and your partner must also know that if you use a condom everytime you have vaginal, anal or oral sex, you reduce your chance of becoming infected with sexually transmitted infections including HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

For more information on condom use, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, call the AIDS/STD Helpline at 967-3830, 967-3764 or toll free at 1-888-991-4444 or write to AIDS Affairs c/o The Star, 7 North Street, Kingston.