Dear Cousellor:

My husband was diagnosed with genital warts. The doctor told him I may be infected also, but I have no symptoms. Could I be infected with genital warts and show no sign at all? How would I know if I am infected? Can a Pap smear tell whether I am infected?

Concerned Wife

Dear Concerned wife:

In some cases it is difficult to know if you are infected with genital warts. Sometimes people do not notice warts because they are inside the vagina, on the cervix or in the anus. In addition, they are often flesh-coloured and painless.

Only rarely do they cause symptoms such as itching, pain or bleeding. Sometimes warts will be found during a physical exam in men or a pelvic exam in women. For women, an abnormal Pap smear may be the first warning sign that the human papilloma virus (HPV) the virus that causes genital warts is present, although a Pap smear is not a test for HPV.

You must see a doctor as soon as possible, since your husband told you he has genital warts, so that you can be properly assess. Remember to follow your doctor's instruction carefully.

OraQuick test

Dear Counsellor:

I am a little confused about the OraQuick test because if HIV cannot be transmitted by saliva how is it that they are doing a saliva test for HIV. Isn't that confusing? Please, clarify for me.

Concerned

Dear Concerned:

The OraQuick test is not a saliva test. The test uses oral fluid, which is slightly different from saliva. To perform the test, the person being tested for HIV gently swabs the device completely around the outer gums, both upper and lower, one time around and inserts it into a vial containing a developer solution. After 20 minutes, the test device will indicate if HIV antibodies are present.

Remember that HIV and other sexually transmitted infections can be prevented if you have sex with only one partner who you know is not infected, or use a condom every time you have sex.

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 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              1888-991-4444      end_of_the_skype_highlighting, or write to AIDS Affairs, c/o the Star 7 North Street, Kingston.