DEAR COUNSELLOR:
I recently found out that I'm HIV positive and afraid to tell my girlfriend. I know she is going to make a big fuss and since she must be infected also, what is the use of telling her. I have decided that when she finds out that will be time enough. What do you think?
- Worried Lover
Dear Worried Lover:
I am sorry to hear that you are infected with HIV the virus that causes AIDS. However, you must be told that your HIV status does not always tell your partners status.
The only way to know if your girlfriend is infected is for her to get tested also. My suggestion is that you speak with an HIV knowledge counsellor as soon as possible.
You must use a condom every time you have sex to prevent your girlfriend from becoming infected. If she is already infected you will still need to use a condom (practice safer sex) so that you won't keep re-infecting each other.
Is vaginal infection a symtom of AIDS?
DEAR COUNSELLOR:
Is vaginal infection a symptom of AIDS?
I have vaginal infections very often and my doctor has sent me to do the AIDS test?
- Worried
Dear Worried:
Having a vaginal infection is not enough to suggest that you are 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 very common in women. However, women who are HIV infected may have more frequent and severe yeast infection because of the deficiency in their immune system. Please follow your doctor's instructions carefully and be sure to avoid stress. Stress can worsen vaginal infections.
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 Affair, c/o THE STAR, 7 North Street, Kingston.
Do
you have a problem? Is something bothering
you? Write to 
