Dear Counsellor:

I notice a burning pain from my penis whenever I urinate. My friend is suggesting that I might be infected with gonorrhoea. Do you think so?

Crazy Lover

Dear Crazy Lover:

It is hard to say whether you are infected with gonorrhea. However, a burning pain whenever you pass the urine is certainly not normal. Therefore, I suggest you see a doctor as soon as possible. In the meantime, you should avoid sexual activity until you are properly diagnosed and treated. Remember, use a condom every time you have sex, minimising your chances of becoming infected with sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, the virus which causes AIDS.

For more information on condom use, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, call the AIDS/STD Helpline, toll-free at 1-888-991-4444 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              1-888-991-4444      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or 967-3830, 967-3764, or write to AIDS Affairs, c/o the Star, 7 North Street, Kingston.