The Jamaica Star :: Health :: Pregnant with aids?

Dear Counsellor:

I'm writing with tears in my eyes. My girlfriend is two months pregnant and I just found out that I'm HIV positive. What can I do? Do you think my beloved girlfriend is HIV positive also? I know it is my fault.

Worried Boyfriend

Dear Worried Boyfriend:

I'm really sorry to hear about your girlfriend's infection with HIV the virus that causes AIDS. You should immediately consult a health care provider who is knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS, so that your girlfriend can be counselled and tested. Remember that it is not all persons who get exposed to HIV become infected, therefore you must start practising safer sex right now.

Often HIV spreads from an infected woman to her baby during pregnancy or delivery. However there are treatments available that a pregnant HIV infected woman could take to prevent her baby from becoming infected. Remember now, it is very important for you and your girlfriend to consult an HIV knowledgeable health care provider immediately.

Bootless risks

Dear Counsellor:

My ex-boyfriend died two years ago and I'm now hearing that he died from AIDS. Since my boyfriend's death I became involved with a married man. I'm now very confused because this man always refuse to use condoms and to make it worst his wife may be at risk also. This is frightening!! What should I do?

The Other Woman

Dear the Other Woman:

If your ex-boyfriend died from AIDS related illnesses yes, it means that you and any other sex partners you may have are at risk for HIV the virus that causes AIDS. You have taken a very responsible approach but you must take it a step further by getting tested for HIV. The only sure way to know if you are infected with HIV is to get tested. Remember, it is natural for you to be confused after hearing such news but you have to do the right thing. You should also speak with an HIV knowledgeable counsellor as soon as possible. You should stop having unprotected sex, use a condom for every act and in this way you would prevent infecting your partner or re-infecting each other.

For more information on condom use, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections call the AIDS/STD Helpline at 967-3830 or 967-3764 or write to AIDS Affairs, c/o the Star, 7 North Street, Kingston.