Health News: HIV Education

HIV education is so easy to remember as it is given a code 3-4-5, these numbers represent the important points to remember:

"3" - There are only 3 modes of transmission.

1. Thru Infected blood and blood products.
>this can be thru blood transfusion, organ transplantation or thru needle pricking accidents.

2. Thru unprotected penetrative sexual intercourse.
>penetrative means "to get in" and all of these 3 modes have risk of transmitting the infection although they vary in the degree of infecting probability.

a. Oral - lowest risk of acquiring the infection. The oral giver (sucker) has higher risk than the receiver (the one being sucked) of getting infected. Contrary to what others say, Oral sex may be a mode of infection although it pose a very little risk. But we must remember, a risk is still a risk no matter how little it is.

b. Vaginal - women have higher risk of acquiring the infection, but the male partner has risk of having it too.

c. Anal - The receiver (bottom) have higher risk than the giver (top). Bareback sex is considered high risk since the anus has thinner walls than the vagina, another fact is that it lacks proper lubrication so a a very small or micro tear may be an entry point of the virus.

3. Mother-to-child Transmission
> During pregnancy
> During delivery
> Thru breast-feeding

"4" - The 4 body fluids containing too much concentration of HIV.

1. Blood
2. Semen (including pre-ejaculate fluid or precum)
3. Vaginal Discharge
4. Breast Milk


"5" - The 5 ways of Preventing Transmission.

A - Abstinence is the best way of preventing HIV transmission.

B - Be mutually faithful (If you cannot abstain from sex and have a partner, please practice fidelity).

C - Consistent and Correct condom use (protect yourself by using condoms + proper lubricant) Although condoms are just 80% effective in reducing the risk of acquiring HIV and other Sexually Transmissible Infections, Consistent Condom Use is an alternative way of "fighting" them. For me 80% is better than having no protection at all...

D - Do not drink excessive alcohol as it may impair your sense of judgment. Also, do not use drugs! If you do, please do not inject! But if you inject, please, do not share needles!

E - Educate yourself. Do not live in the days of folklore or myths. We are in the 21st century and we need to be well-informed with the correct information. Throw away all misconceptions and diminish the stigma against People Living with HIV.

And the most important portion of this post, early detection. If you will be diagnosed of HIV at an early stage, it will be better to manage the situation, delaying the onset of AIDS or having opportunistic infections. If you are ready, then TAKE THE TEST!

Reminders:

1. The internet is a great tool of providing us potent information. however, we must choose things to believe in. If possible, consult a doctor personally regarding your HIV concerns. Remember, only HIV screening can detect the presence of HIV antibodies in the blood. You may have several symptoms that almost likely are related to HIV but please bear in mind that only HIV Testing can clear your mind of doubts. Some clients I have handled have lost so much weight, saying they have symptoms of HIV like prolonged dry coughs or diarrhea. But this stressful condition only causes paranoia thus making their health condition worse. Luckily, convincing them to undergo the test, most of them came out non-reactive (negative). It was only then they appreciate the value of the facing their fears and get an HIV screening.

2. If somebody comes out NR/ Non-Reactive, He/She is reminded of the 3 weeks to 6 months window period which is the average length of time for the body to produce specific antibody to HIV. The test detects the presence of HIV Antibody which is the determining factor for the presence of an HIV infection.

3. Another thing is that, we have The Republic Act 8504 otherwise known as the Philippine AIDS Prevention and Control Act of 1998 in case you have an issue with the confidentiality of the testing, or any other concerns regarding HIV, this is the best guide you should look into.