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RISING WOMEN EXPERT
ADVICE...
Can you clarify HIV/AIDS?
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus that causes Acquired
Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). When a person is infected with HIV, the
virus enters the body and multiplies primarily in the white blood cells that
normally protect us from disease. In HIV infection, we see the loss of the
T-helper, or CD4 cells. As the virus grows, it damages or kills these cells,
weakening the immune system and our resistance to other disease and
infections. For some, the T-cell decline and opportunistic infections that
signal AIDS develop soon after infection with HIV. Most people, however, do
not develop symptoms for 10 to 12 years, and a few remain symptom-free for
much longer; hence, the importance of getting tested regularly.
A person who has HIV carries the virus in certain body fluids, including
blood, semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk. The virus can be
transmitted only if such HIV-infected fluids enter the bloodstream of
another person. This kind of direct entry can occur (1) through the linings
of the vagina, rectum, mouth, and the opening at the tip of the penis; (2)
through intravenous injection; or (3) through a break in the skin, such as a
cut or sore. For example, HIV is transmitted through:
- Unprotected sexual intercourse (either vaginal or anal) with someone who
has HIV;
- Shared needles, razors or syringes. Body piercing and tattoo needles
should always be new;
- Infection during pregnancy, childbirth or breast-feeding;
- Oral sex with someone who has HIV. There are far fewer cases of HIV
transmission attributed to oral sex, but oral-genital contact poses a clear
risk of HIV infection, particularly when ejaculation occurs in the mouth.
This risk goes up when either partner has cuts or sores such as those caused
by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), recent tooth-brushing or canker
sores, which allow the virus to enter the bloodstream.
HIV is not transmitted through food, air or insects, and there has never
been a case where a person was infected through everyday contact, such as
sharing eating utensils, bathroom facilities or through surface contact (i.e:
hugging). However, sweat, tears, vomit, feces and urine do contain HIV, and
would have to enter the bloodstream through a cut or sore.
If you are sexually active, protect yourself against HIV and STDs by using
only latex condoms or “dental dam” (a square of latex recommended for use
during oral-genital and oral-anal sex). And only use water-based lubricants
as latex condoms are virtually useless when combined with oil- or
petroleum-based lubricants such as Vaseline or hand lotion.
Janet Rowe, owner of Health & Natural Lifestyles, specializes in live
& dried Blood Analysis. Visit
www.healthy-option.com to learn more about her services. |
