Wednesday Mar 13, 2013

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So, apart from dodging the water canon on campus today (because South African students have to be tough), I went for an HIV test.

Basically, I am pretty much on the whole pro-testing bandwagon. As well as fully against any stereotyping and judgement on HIV.

Some fun facts:


  • HIV is now a chronic disease. This means you can lead a normal functioning life if you are HIV positive.

  • HIV does not discriminate. It doesn't care what socio-economic class you belong to and it definitely does not care who you are having sex with.

  • HIV needs three criteria to be filled in order for infection to take place. These criteria are: an infected person with a high viral count, an open wound and an appropriate time-span.

  • There is high risk behavior and low risk behavior. High risk behavior involves penetrative sex (anal and vaginal) as well as sharing of needles. Things like thigh sex, oral sex and mutual masturbation are considered low risk

  • STI's are gateways to HIV infection (as they usually create some kind of wound). Going for regular STI checks is as important as being tested for HIV. Some STI's can show no obvious physical symptoms




Using protection, minimizing risks and looking after yourself no matter who you are is important.

until next time.

VIEW 25 of 36 COMMENTS
jeckyl:
Is it weird that I heard my mother's voice in my head the whole time I was reading that??whatever

Thanks for the very informative blog though, I feel like I should be leaving this talk with a fistful of condoms... biggrin


kiss
jeckyl:
No, it was meant as a compliment! Mothers give very sage advice.

And the last bit was meant as a jokeblush
Even though I'm a huge supporter of abstinence, I've always been really nervous to get tested. Clinics just really give off that vibe, I'm not sure why.

But I see why it's important, I'll give it a go..

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