Dear Counsellor:

I had sex with a man I now hear is HIV-infected. What should I do? I am very worried.

Worried Lover.

Dear Worried Lover:

You should talk with a counsellor right away. A counsellor can help you in the following ways:

- With information and education about HIV the virus that causes AIDS.

- With figuring out whether your sexual activities may have put you at risk for HIV

- With specific information on ways to protect you from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

- With information on where and how to get tested.

- With referrals for support services you may need.

Are there Special brands of condoms for safe sex?

Dear Counsellor:

Is there a special brand of condom you could recommend for safe sex?

Young Lover.

Dear Young Lover:

Different companies manufacture condoms and these companies use different brand names. The brand of condom you use then should not be the important factor. Here is what is important and what makes sex safer using the condom:

- Use condoms that are made from latex.

- Practice consistent condom use by using a condom every time you have sex.

- Never unroll the condom before using it.

- Never re-use a condom.

- To maintain condom strength, store them in a cool, dry place

- Do not use after the expiry date on the condom package. Some condoms carry only the manufacturer's date. A condom is good up to 5 years after the manufacturers date.