Dear Counsellor:

I have just been diagnosed with HIV. How long will I live? I feel hopeless.

Hopeless

Dear Hopeless:

AIDS Affairs knows it can be frustrating not knowing what will happen to you. Many people with HIV feel the same anxiety you feel. Even though AIDS Affairs cannot tell you what will happen to you, it can tell you that there are reasons to be hopeful. New treatments are constantly being developed and people with HIV are living longer and healthier lives all the time. You will need to visit an HIV-knowledgeable health care provider to discuss your HIV status and treatment options as soon as possible.

Is oral sex safe?

Dear Counsellor:

I am a virgin and I am not ready to lose my virginity. My boyfriend and I decided that we will only practise oral sex instead of intercourse. Is oral sex safe?

Virgin

Dear Virgin:

Oral sex is not safe. A few persons have become infected with HIV by having oral sex.

Since the mouth is lined with thin tissues called mucous membrane, contact with infectious blood, semen or vaginal secretions may make it easier for HIV to enter the body. The presence of cuts, such as those caused by tooth brushing, lesions, blisters, or other open areas in or around the mouth, may further increase the risk. Therefore, you must protect yourself.

Penile discharge

Dear Counsellor:

I noticed a watery discharge from my penis. I told a close friend of mine and he said he had a similar experience. He told me it may be a strain caused from lifting heavy equipment. He then gave me some red and black capsules a friend had given him. What do you think I should do?

Jerry

Dear Jerry:

AIDS Affairs strongly suggests that you go to see a doctor immediately. Any discharge from the penis may be a sexually transmitted infection, particularly if you are sexually active and not protecting yourself.

AIDS Affairs disagrees with your friend that lifting heavy equipment could cause a discharge from the penis. Taking medication from your friend can be considered very dangerous and will only make the situation worse. You must see a doctor soon so that you can be properly diagnosed and treated.

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.