Q: How does one get an STI?
A: Once you start being sexually active, it is always best to learn how to protect yourself from STIs. STIs are sexually transmitted infections. You may get infected through sexual intercourse with an infected partner. These germs are so tiny you cannot see them without using high-powered instruments. They swim in body fluids such as blood or discharge from the vagina or penis of infected persons. In some cases, STIs may be transmitted through needle pricks, a cut in the skin or during blood transfusions. Milk from an infected mother may also transfer these STI-causing germs to babies by breastfeeding.
Be very careful. Observe for any cuts, wounds or tattoos on your partner’s body and get to know your partner’s sexual practices.
Q:Are condoms effective in stopping STIs?
A: Condoms are effective in protecting you from STIs once properly used. The condom actually serves as a barrier. However, some germs as in the case of viruses may be small enough to seep through the tiny holes of a condom. Use latex condoms as they provide more protection. Some persons are allergic to latex. If this is the case, consult your doctor so you may be advised regarding other alternatives.
Use water-based lubricants like KY jelly when using a condom. Oil-based lubricants can heat up the skin of the condoms and can cause small tears on its surface. Condoms are not very expensive and are readily available in the market.
Q: What is AIDS?
A: We hear about AIDS everyday. People who have AIDS do not get it upon infection. AIDS is the result of an infection by a virus called HIV which is the human immunodeficiency virus. HIV is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids during sexual intercourse, blood transfusion, and even breastfeeding. Persons infected with HIV may not feel anything or show outward symptoms of the disease for several years. They may infect other people during this time. HIV infection may become full blown AIDS once the person’s immune system can no longer fight HIV. The immune system is the body’s first line of defense against unwanted germs that invade the body. It is during this time that the infected person starts getting weaker. Simple colds and skin infections that can be easily treated in healthy individuals may cause death and long hospital stays in persons with AIDS.
Q: Can AIDS be transmitted through kissing or sharing personal belongings?
A: Like any STI, AIDS is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids. Saliva contains a very small amount of HIV in infected persons. Unless there is bleeding in the mouth or open cuts or wounds in the mouth, you cannot get HIV from kissing.
Neither can you get infected with HIV by sharing personal things like toothbrushes, forks and spoons. It is also very unlikely for you to get infected with HIV in everyday social contact such as touching or cuddling.
Q: How can we prevent its transmission?
A: Protect yourself always. HIV is no respecter of age, race or sex. It can affect young and old, men and women, rich and poor. Remember that with any kind of infection, it takes two to tango. You can infect you partner and vice versa. Getting to know your partners, their sexual values and previous sexual practices will be able to help you. This may be easier said than done but it makes a lot of sense as far as your health is concerned. Asking your male partner to use a condom is one of the simplest and effective ways to prevent the transmission of STIs. Do not readily engage in sexual relations when you are not prepared. Seek the advice of a doctor so you may be guided. Washing the vagina with soap and water after sexual intercourse or using alcohol cannot stop STIs from being transmitted.
