Do lesbians get AIDS?

Dear Counsellor:

I'm a lesbian and I think I'm glad to be one because of what I see AIDS doing to my heterosexual friends. Some of my friends keep telling me I'm still not safe.

Lesbian

Dear Lesbian:

Sexual transmission of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, between lesbians, appears to be very rare. However, from what we know about sexual transmission of HIV, it is clear that lesbian transmission is possible and may be more common than we know. There are some lesbians who are HIV-positive and also have sex with men. Please, remember that the only time you are totally free from becoming infected with sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, is when you don't have sex at all (you are abstaining).

HOW MUCH does AN HIV/AIDS TEST COST?

Dear Counsellor:

I would like to get tested for HIV, how much does HIV-counselling and testing cost?

June

Dear June:

All government health centres and hospitals are free. However, if you go to a private health-care facility for counselling and testing, the costs can vary. You may ask beforehand.

Is vaginal infection a symptom of AIDS?

Dear Counsellor:

I have frequent vaginal infections and I fear that this could be a symptom of AIDS?

Worried Women

Dear Worried Women:

Many women have vaginal infections and they are not infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. As a matter of fact, most women will experience a vaginal infection at some point in their lives. Even virgin women can have vaginal infections. Yeast infections, for example, are not uncommon in women. However, a yeast infection may become more frequent and severe in HIV-infected women due to the deficiency of their immune system. You must seek medical attention, as soon as possible, so that you can be properly treated for this infection.

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

1888-991-4444 or write to AIDS Affairs c/o the Star, 7 North Street, Kingston.