Dear Counsellor:

Two weeks ago, I was diagnosed with genital herpes but I didn't have symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection. Sometimes I have a mild vaginal itch. I find it hard to believe my doctor. What are the symptoms of genital herpes?

Pearl

Dear Pearl

A person with genital herpes may notice itching or pain in the genital area, a burning sensation when urinating, or a vaginal discharge. Usually within a week after exposure, small, painful blisters appear on the vagina, cervix, urethra or anal area in women and on the penis or around the anus in men. The sores become crusty and heal without scarring. Swelling in the groin area and flu-like symptoms (such as fever, sore throat and headache) may also occur. Some people don't have any symptoms.

Can gonorrhoea turn into HIV?

Dear Counsellor:

My doctor told me that I'm infected with gonorrhoea. He then suggested that I do a test for HIV. Why is this necessary? Does this mean that gonorrhoea can turn into HIV?

Worried Sick

Dear Worried Sick:

The fact that you have gonorrhoea (a sexually transmitted infection) could also mean that you have been exposed to HIV. Being infected with gonorrhoea is usually the result of having unprotected sex (sex without a condom) with an infected partner. This is the same means by which HIV, the virus, which causes AIDS, is transmitted. You should follow your doctor's instructions. Remember also that if you use condoms every time you have sex, this would reduce your chance of getting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

Dear Counsellor:

Is there some other way I could protect myself against HIV or AIDS other than using condoms? My boyfriend is dead set against condoms. I also know that he has another woman.

C.J.

Dear C.J.

For persons who are sexually active, the only sure way to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is for them to use condoms every time they have sex. If your boyfriend is dead set against condoms, then in the long run, he might be just that. Your boyfriend has to be made to realise that sexually transmitted infections are serious. Therefore, you have to insist that he uses a condom all the time. If your boyfriend cares about you then he must know not to put your life at risk.

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.