Tested positive for syphilis

Dear Counsellor

I tested positive for syphilis, do you think my sex partner of six months is infected also. I know he did not infect me. I am almost 100 per cent sure I got it from my ex-boyfriend. He came over one night with money for our daughter and I did a little thing with him.

Unfaithful

Dear Unfaithful,

Since you are presently infected with syphilis all of your sex partners with whom you have oral, vaginal and anal sex with or without condoms within the last three months should be tested and treated, even if the test comes back negative. This is because of the incubation period for syphilis, in other words, if you are outside of the incubation period you will have a negative result but is still infected.

Remember, if you use a condom every time you have sex your risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections including HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, will be greatly reduced.

Will Chlamydia affect my unborn child?

Dear Counsellor,

I got a text message from a woman saying that my husband infected her with Chlamydia. This worries me because I am pregnant. If it is true that my husband is really infected with Chlamydia, how would this affect my unborn child?

With Child

Dear With Child,

Chlamydia would not affect the baby before it is born, but treatment should be completed before delivery, as it can cause premature labour and blindness if the baby is infected during birth.

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.