Dear Counsellor:

I tested HIV-positive and I know I will have to use a condom every time I have sex. Is it necessary for me to tell future sex partners that I'm infected with HIV? I don't plan to settle down with any one partner.

T.W.

Dear T.W.:

Not telling future partners that you are infected with HIV can be very damaging to your relationship and dangerous to your health. Remember that condoms can burst or you may not be able to use them consistently. Therefore, you need to be aware that having sex with many partners may expose you to reinfection with HIV and other sexually transmitted infections such as hepatitis B, which can kill you faster than HIV does. It is also important for you to know that other sexually transmitted infections may cause a person to develop AIDS faster.

You should speak with a counsellor versed on HIV as soon as possible.

Redness, bumps

Dear Counsellor:

I have redness, itching and tiny bumps around the tip of my penis. Can you tell me what that is and if there is a cream I can buy to rub on it?

Roy

Dear Roy:

No, I cannot recommend any cream that you can buy over the counter. You may have an infection that needs to be properly diagnosed and treated. The visible symptoms you are experiencing may go away even without treatment but the germ will remain in your body and may cause serious damage to your health. Therefore, 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 1888-991-4444 or write to AIDS Affairs c/o the Star, 7 North Street, Kingston.