Dear Counsellor:

I suspect that I may be infected with gonorrhoea because I started having a smelly vaginal discharge and intense burning pain in my vagina whenever I pass my urine. This happens just about three days after having unprotected sex with a long-time friend whom I had not seen for sometime. Counsellor, I'm afraid and ashamed to go to the doctor. What should I do? I'm very nervous.

Lorna

Dear Lorna:

First, you should know that your doctor is not there to judge you. He or she wants to help you live a more comfortable life. Second, knowing what to expect from a doctor's visit may help lessen your anxiety beforehand and ultimately may help you have a better dialogue regarding your symptoms and possible treatment options. Your visit to the doctor will help you to understand how he or she may make a diagnosis of the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhoea and you may learn about testing and treatment options that are available.

When you talk to your doctor, it is important for you to be open and honest. There's very little you can tell your doctor that your doctor hasn't heard from other patients. Take the time to tell your doctor about all your symptoms and how severe or uncomfortable they are. Most important, remember that your doctor wants to help you feel better. You should also know that if gonorrhoea is left untreated, you may develop very serious complications.

Chlamydia concerns

Dear Counsellor:

My girlfriend was diagnosed with a sexual infection called chlamydia. I knew she had other partners because she is a prostitute and I really don't worry about her being a prostitute because she needs the financial help. I always use condoms with her during vaginal sex but I have performed unprotected oral sex on her. Can I get chlamydia from oral sex?

Nervous

Dear Nervous:

Yes, you can get chlamydia from oral sex. Transmission of chlamydia can occur during any kind of sexual contact - vaginal, oral or anal. Oral sex may cause chlamydia of the throat while chlamydia infection in the anal area may be caused by anal sex or movement of the bacteria from the genitals. Chlamydia is an extremely contagious disease so you must see a health-care provider as soon as possible.

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 Gleaner, 7 North Street, Kingston.