Dear Counsellor:

How soon after unprotected sex should I get tested for HIV? How can I tell if my sex partner is infected?

Scary

Dear Scary:

The average person produces antibodies (the substance pro-duced in the blood to fight foreign bodies such as HIV, the virus that causes AIDS) as early as eight weeks after exposure. Therefore, it is recommended that you wait at least eight weeks after ex-posure before you get tested. Remember, HIV and other sexu-ally transmitted infections can be prevented if you use a condom every time you have sex. It is also important to talk about safe sex before having sex with a new partner. You cannot tell by looking if people have HIV, and without discussing it you won't be able to tell whether or not partners intend to practice safer sex. It is a lot easier to talk about safer sex before you get sexually involved.

Dear Counsellor:

I am 25 and my girlfriend 22. Whenever we have sex she always complains that she does not enjoy it. One of my male friends told me that before I have sex I should drink a few beers, take a smoke and avoid using the condom then I would be able to give her real good sex. Do you think drugs and alcohol will enhance my performance?

Worried Lover

Dear Worried Lover

No, alcohol or other drugs will not enhance your sexual per-formance. You should not mix sex with alcohol or other drugs because when you drink or get high, you are more likely to have unsafe sex. Too much alcohol and smoking may also kill your sex drive. Talk with your partner. Discuss ways you can have sexual enjoyment and make sex safer. For example, you could:

❒ Give a massage

❒ Shower or bathe together

❒ Cuddle each other

❒ Have your partner put the condom on

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/Affairs

c/o The Star

7 North Street

Kingston