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February 24, 2015
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Aids Affairs

Dear Counsellor:

I am 17 and my boyfriend is 38. He loves me and treats me like a father. My mother says he is the kind of man she likes for a son-in-law. He does not pressure me for sex. He wants me to finish my exams first, but I cannot wait to have sex with him. How can I tell if he is HIV-positive? He looks very well and he has never been sick since I met him. How can I talk to him about HIV?

Teen Lover

Dear Teen Lover:

You cannot tell if he is HIV-positive just by looking at him. There is always risk of contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections unless you are totally confident about yourself and your partner. Most people have trouble talking about their risk for HIV. Current or past partners may avoid telling you whether they have been exposed to or infected with HIV. However you should ask your boyfriend (straight up) about his risk for HIV and whether he has been tested. If you cannot be sure he is free of HIV, then you must suggest that he get tested. Remember, the only way to be sure is if he is tested. The HIV test can be done free at any government health centre.

Dear Counsellor:

I am infected with herpes but my girlfriend is not. Can we have children?

Want to be a Father

Dear Want to be a Father:

Herpes infection does not prevent a person from having children. However, an infected mother can pass it on to her child during delivery. Therefore, it is important for the infected mother to inform her health care provider so that the necessary precautions can be taken. You need not worry about having children because many persons with herpes infection do have healthy babies.

For more information on condom use, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections call the AIDS/STD Helpline at 967-3830, 976-3764 or toll free at 1888-991-4444.

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