Dear Counsellor:

My friend and I are trying to see which one of us will have sex with the most women by the end of the year. After all, it is our anniversary year and we want to make our mark. Can I get HIV from sex with many women? Let me be very clear, we only have sex with women.

Lover Boy

Dear Lover Boy:

If you choose to have sex with several partners, you must know that you increase the risk of becoming infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, with each partner. However, it is not just a question of how many partners you have. Any one act of unprotected intercourse (sex without a condom) with a person, who is infected with HIV, could result in you becoming infected. It may be that these women are also taking sexual risks with other people. You should reduce your risk of HIV infection by using a condom every time you have sex. You must also use the condom from the beginning of sexual act to the end. Remember, the more sex partners you have the greater your chances are of becoming infected with HIV. Please share this information with your friend.

For more information on HIV/AIDS, condom use and other sexually transmitted infections call the AIDS /STD Helpline at 967-3830, 967-3764 or toll free at 1888-991-4444.