Dear Pastor,

I am a frequent reader of your column. I have seen where you have helped many and I hope you can help me also. I am a 20-year-old woman who thinks I might have a serious problem. About two years ago, I was involved with a guy who I consider to be a 'player'. He had a lot of women with me and I have contracted a serious disease (STD). I have not taken a blood test, but I am sure it is an STD.

Worried

I am worried because I didn't tell my boyfriend that I have an STD and we have had unprotected sex a number of times. I know that he had no STD because he was a virgin when we meet. I really want to do a blood test, but I fear to hear the result.

My abdomen hurts and I have discharge from my vagina.

Is that a sign for HIV? I await your response.

L.B., St Ann, Jamaica.

Dear L.B.,

It is unfortunate that you did not see a doctor after you suspected that you might have been infected with a venereal disease. That was something you should have talked to your boyfriend about and both of you should have sought medical attention.

I am also disappointed in hearing that although you knew that your new boyfriend was a virgin and that you were having an unusual discharge, you engaged in unprotected sex with him. That was so very wrong. In fact, that is wickedness.

May I therefore urge you to go and see a doctor without delay. What you don't know can hurt you. If you feel that you must have sex, you ought to use a condom.

Pastor