Dear Counsellor:

After two years of a relationship, my boyfriend confessed that he is bisexual. We have not always used a condom and now I am worried about my health. What should I do?

Worried Lover

Dear Worried Lover:

Since your boyfriend has been honest about his sexual status, I think you should both have an in-depth discussion as to whether he has been having unprotected sex (not using condoms) with his other partners (male/female). If he has not been using condoms, then you are at risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. I suggest that you and your boyfriend visit a private doctor or a medical centre where you can have tests done.

Dear Counsellor:

My best friend is HIV-positive and I'm so confused. I think she is coping better than I'm coping. I feel helpless and angry. What can I do for myself?

Close Friend

Dear Close Friend:

When someone close to you faces the emotional and physical effects of AIDS, you may feel helpless or inadequate. But you don't have to. Your friendship can be the most powerful tool you have to help a friend living with HIV/AIDS keep loneliness and fear at a distance. I'm suggesting that you do the following for yourself:

• Understand your own emotions of anger, grief and helplessness. Find the support you need through your friends, or by joining a support group.

• Don't confuse your friend's acceptance of illness with defeat. Acceptance often gives a sense of empowerment and freedom.

• Educate yourself. Whether through books, magazines, the Internet or workshops, take the time to learn more about HIV/AIDS.

Dear Counsellor:

I have a vaginal discharge that does not smell and there is no itching. How do I know if it is a normal discharge?

Concerned

Dear Concerned:

Please appreciate that normal secretions from the vaginal may vary from time to time. A mild discharge (as long as there is no real discomfort, pain itching or foul odour) does not mean that there is an infection. Glands in the cervix and the membranes that line the vagina secrete moisture and mucus and when dry it may look yellow. This secretion increases in a woman when she is sexually aroused. The amount and consistency of a woman's discharge may vary during her menstrual cycle, and may also depend on a woman's personal hormone balance, as at the time of ovulation. However, there are some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that cause a discharge. Therefore, it is always advisable to check with the doctor for proper diagnoses. It is suggested also that all sexually active persons do a test for STIs at least once per year, especially if they don't use a condom all the time.

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.