Happy New Year! So what is your resolution this year? Are you going to finally get your house clean or run that marathon? Well here are the top ten things you should do this year, when it comes to your resolution.
1) Know your status:
Everyone has an HIV status. This is so important in the fight against the disease. Knowing your status is one of the healthiest things you can do. Find out today! In most cases it will only takes about 30 minutes to finish the test. (www.hivtest.org or text your zip code to 566948)
2) Get help for substance abuse:
That one is pretty self-explanatory. If you feel that you need help, please get help. Just remember that the people who are involved in recovery programs are there to help, not judge. (http://www.samhsa.gov/)
3) Depression and Anxiety:
Depression and Anxiety can be a serious mental illness. Both of them have distinct characteristics. Check out WebMD for more information, however, remember that nothing can replace the valuable advice of a trained medical professional. (http://www.webmd.com/)
4) Hepatitis:
Hepatitis is a disease that affects the liver. There are five forms of Hepatitis, but you should know that you can get immunized against A & B. To get more information on Hepatitis (http://www.cdc.gov/HEPATITIS/)
5) Sexually Transmitted Diseases:
Gay and Bi Men do not just get HIV. There are slues of other diseases that you can contract such as Syphilis, Chlamydia, etc. If you are sexually active you should get check for STDs. 1 out of every 2 people will contract an STD by 25. (http://www.findstdtest.org/)
6) Cancers:
Make sure get checked for Prostate, Testicular, and Colon Cancers. These tests should occur across the life span. You can do a Testicular Self Exam (http://tcrc.acor.org/tcexam.html). Check it out!
7) Alcohol:
I know we talked about substance abuse issues, but alcohol safety is key as well. Make sure that you always have a sober buddy! That way you know that you can get home safely. Try not to drink too much, and stay hydrated but drinking water between drinks. (I often finish my drink and then eat the ice, before get some water).
8) Tobacco:
You knew this was coming. If you use, try to stop. It could be the healthiest thing you do all year. 1-800-QuitNow is a great resource. They could even send you gum or patches. You can also check out http://www.nicotine-anonymous.org/.
9) Diet and Exercise.
This is everyone’s favorite resolution. “I want to lose weight!” I say great, just make sure that you are doing it in a healthy, productive way. Your doctor can help you and even refer you to a nutritionist. Make sure that you take a healthy path. I know that it is easier to do “Fad Diets” or take pills. Just be careful these things could have some serious side effects. If you feel that you may have Bulimia or Anorexia please seek help. (http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/anorexia-nervosa/default.htm)
10) Anal Papilloma:
This could be a serious problem. Anal Papilloma can lead to anal cancers in men. This is something that you talk to you doctor about. Many experts believe that you should have an anal pap smear like women have every year. (http://aids.about.com/cs/conditions/a/analpaps.htm)
So make your appointments, and make 2010 the healthiest year of your life!
(This list is adapted from the GLMA’s
“TEN THINGS GAY MEN SHOULD DISCUSS WITH THEIR HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS” http://glma.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=Page.viewPage&pageID=690)
Showing posts with label Project FIERCE. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Project FIERCE. Show all posts
Monday, January 4, 2010
Monday, December 14, 2009
From the Desk of P. Battani
Dear Project FIERCE Family:
This is the most difficult and saddest letter I have ever written. Over the last year, I have seen Project FIERCE grow from idea into something great. This is not to my credit but to the credit of the whole community. The support that I have received from Truman’s, Vickie’s, The Club has been amazing. I want to take this moment to thank each person who has helped achieve this goal.
Now for the hard part… I have resigned from AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist effective January 8, 2010. The many years I have spent with the organization have taught me so much. Without the AMAA, I could not go forward at this time.
I am proud of the work that I have done with AMAA and Project FIERCE. Sometimes, like any proud parent, you have to let go and let them find their own way. I know that Project FIERCE is in the best hands, I couldn’t ask for better people.
As job opportunities have arose in the past, I have politely passed. I did this because I am committed to my community and their wellbeing. South Bend is my hometown; I care deeply for all of my brothers and sisters. However, an opportunity too good to pass up came along.
This new opportunity will help me to grow and what I learn, I can share. I will be moving to Bloomington, Indiana. I have accepted a position with Bloomington Hospital’s Positive Link. This does not mean that I am abandoning Project FIERCE; it just means I will watch from afar. I will always be a phone call away if anyone needs me.
Please understand that this position will enrich all of our lives for the better. With new information and new technologies to share, we can reach more people and hopeful end this epidemic. It has been a pleasure and an honor to serve my community in this capacity, I will truly miss everyone…and you scarecrow, I think I’ll miss you most of all.
Stay Health and Be FIERCE,
Patrick Battani
This is the most difficult and saddest letter I have ever written. Over the last year, I have seen Project FIERCE grow from idea into something great. This is not to my credit but to the credit of the whole community. The support that I have received from Truman’s, Vickie’s, The Club has been amazing. I want to take this moment to thank each person who has helped achieve this goal.
Now for the hard part… I have resigned from AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist effective January 8, 2010. The many years I have spent with the organization have taught me so much. Without the AMAA, I could not go forward at this time.
I am proud of the work that I have done with AMAA and Project FIERCE. Sometimes, like any proud parent, you have to let go and let them find their own way. I know that Project FIERCE is in the best hands, I couldn’t ask for better people.
As job opportunities have arose in the past, I have politely passed. I did this because I am committed to my community and their wellbeing. South Bend is my hometown; I care deeply for all of my brothers and sisters. However, an opportunity too good to pass up came along.
This new opportunity will help me to grow and what I learn, I can share. I will be moving to Bloomington, Indiana. I have accepted a position with Bloomington Hospital’s Positive Link. This does not mean that I am abandoning Project FIERCE; it just means I will watch from afar. I will always be a phone call away if anyone needs me.
Please understand that this position will enrich all of our lives for the better. With new information and new technologies to share, we can reach more people and hopeful end this epidemic. It has been a pleasure and an honor to serve my community in this capacity, I will truly miss everyone…and you scarecrow, I think I’ll miss you most of all.
Stay Health and Be FIERCE,
Patrick Battani
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
In My Not So Humble Opinion
It has been a year and as we head into the holiday season, I just wanted to give you all some of the insight that I have learned this year. This will be my last blog…so I am gonna make it a good one. With 2010 just around the corner, it is important that this year we make a resolution to be healthy. I don’t know what that means to you, but take care of your whole self this year mind, body and spirit. Here are my 2009 Lessons.
All that glitters isn't gold…sometimes it's just glitter.
I have learned that sometimes if it shiny and new, it isn't always right. I tried new things this year and not all of them were really worth that much other then the experience. Sometimes what you think is valuable is just cheap pieces of shiny plastic and sometimes shiny plastic is worth more then gold.
Stand strong and carry a big stick!
I really learned what it means to stand up for what you believe in this year. If they won't listen then use the stick! I am not advocating violence, but sometimes that is the only thing that people respond to. I did not get into any fights this year, but I have given some really intimidating looks.
Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover.
Boy, did I learn this lesson this year. I have actually found friends in people that I would have never been friends will. I honor those relationships and learn from my mistake. Be kind to each other…the toes you step on today may be connected to the butt you have to kiss tomorrow.
Rome wasn't built in a Day!
That may be true…but someone dreamt it in one day. Follow your dreams regardless of what anyone tells you. This was a lesson that I so need to hear. I have so many dreams in this world and I know that I can make them all come true!
You can always come home!
At the end of the day I have had my fun. Made new friends, made some changes and become someone who I am much prouder of today then I was yesterday. But at the end of the day all I really need is to come home where it is warm and loving. SO here is to 2010…wasn't the greatest year…wasn’t the worst. Thanks for the memories!
In my not so humble opinion, tomorrow hopes that we have learned something from today!
Love,
Patricio
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
A letter from the Director of Prevention.
December 1, 2009
Dear Community Partner:
As we celebrate World AIDS Day on December 1, 2009, it is important that we do not forget about HIV/AIDS awareness in our community. The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has made funding recommendations to cut HIV Counseling & Testing prevention programs and activities in St. Joseph County for 2010. St. Joseph County (Region 2) presently ranks 4th in the state for HIV/AIDS rates, but ranks 7th in the level of funding recommendations and have been denied funding to provide HIV Counseling & Testing.
The guidelines for allocating HIV Prevention dollars mandate that the resources must follow the disease burden in the state.
St. Joseph deserves to be funded at a rate comparable to those who share the same disease burden. HIV Prevention funding must be increased to provide comprehensive prevention services in St. Joseph County!
The largest HIV/AIDS service community based organization in St. Joseph County and the St. Joseph County Health Department has provided HIV Counseling & Testing services since 1993. AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist alone has identified 15 new HIV positive individuals between January and October 2009. St. Joseph County is an ideal model of community collaborations. HIV/AIDS service organizations in St. Joseph county work in partnership with local health centers, drug treatment centers, universities, homeless centers, and the county jail to provide HIV Counseling & Testing. Without these vital prevention services the community of St. Joseph will no longer be able to offer early detection and we will return to the days of hospital emergency rooms identifying new HIV infections. As individuals go undiagnosed and untreated for HIV the result will be an unfair burden on already limited local resources.
The Indiana HIV Community Planning Group (CPG) will meet on Monday, December 14, 2009 to review and approve the 2010 HIV Prevention Plan which includes funding recommendations from the Indiana State Department of Health. Upon approval the plan will be submitted to the Centers for Disease Control. We must contact the Indiana State Department of Health prior to this meeting!
WE NEED YOUR HELP! PLEASE DO NOT ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN. We must have HIV Counseling & Testing and Outreach funding restored to St. Joseph County! Please contact:
Please demand that HIV Counseling & Testing and Outreach funding be restored to St. Joseph County!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Latorya Greene at 574-234-2870 or Lragnew@yahoo.com.
Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to support the community of St. Joseph County!
Sincerely,
Latorya R. Greene
Director of Prevention
AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist
Dear Community Partner:
As we celebrate World AIDS Day on December 1, 2009, it is important that we do not forget about HIV/AIDS awareness in our community. The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has made funding recommendations to cut HIV Counseling & Testing prevention programs and activities in St. Joseph County for 2010. St. Joseph County (Region 2) presently ranks 4th in the state for HIV/AIDS rates, but ranks 7th in the level of funding recommendations and have been denied funding to provide HIV Counseling & Testing.
The guidelines for allocating HIV Prevention dollars mandate that the resources must follow the disease burden in the state.
St. Joseph deserves to be funded at a rate comparable to those who share the same disease burden. HIV Prevention funding must be increased to provide comprehensive prevention services in St. Joseph County!
The largest HIV/AIDS service community based organization in St. Joseph County and the St. Joseph County Health Department has provided HIV Counseling & Testing services since 1993. AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist alone has identified 15 new HIV positive individuals between January and October 2009. St. Joseph County is an ideal model of community collaborations. HIV/AIDS service organizations in St. Joseph county work in partnership with local health centers, drug treatment centers, universities, homeless centers, and the county jail to provide HIV Counseling & Testing. Without these vital prevention services the community of St. Joseph will no longer be able to offer early detection and we will return to the days of hospital emergency rooms identifying new HIV infections. As individuals go undiagnosed and untreated for HIV the result will be an unfair burden on already limited local resources.
The Indiana HIV Community Planning Group (CPG) will meet on Monday, December 14, 2009 to review and approve the 2010 HIV Prevention Plan which includes funding recommendations from the Indiana State Department of Health. Upon approval the plan will be submitted to the Centers for Disease Control. We must contact the Indiana State Department of Health prior to this meeting!
WE NEED YOUR HELP! PLEASE DO NOT ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN. We must have HIV Counseling & Testing and Outreach funding restored to St. Joseph County! Please contact:
Judith A. Monroe, Indiana State Health Commissioner
1-317-233-1325 (ISDH switchboard)
Larry Harris, ISDH Interim Division Director Division of HIV
1-317-233-7464
Veronica McCants, CDC HIV Prevention Project Officer
1-404-639-5194
Indiana State Representative Ryan Dvorak
Indiana House Speaker B. Pat Bauer
1-317-232-9600 or 1-800-382-9842 toll-free
Congressman Joe Donnelly
574-288-2825 or 1-202-225-3915
Please demand that HIV Counseling & Testing and Outreach funding be restored to St. Joseph County!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Latorya Greene at 574-234-2870 or Lragnew@yahoo.com.
Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to support the community of St. Joseph County!
Sincerely,
Latorya R. Greene
Director of Prevention
AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist
World AIDS Day 2009
Today is World AIDS Day. The world wide theme of World AIDS Day is: “I am living my rights” Stop AIDS. Keep the Promise. This is a call to raise your voice today. I have decided to use mine to talk a little bit about this disease.
In 1981, our brothers and sisters began to hear about the “Gay Cancer” or “GRID” (Gay Related Immune Deficiency”. A panic set in, Public Health scrambled to contain the outbreak. They whispered about this disease in hallways and discussed actions behind closed doors. It would take five years before President Reagan spoke the word “AIDS” in public.
In 1983, we were made promises that we would have a vaccine, or even a cure. Instead we held candlelight memorials and sewed quilt panels to honor those we have lost. The war had begun.
In 1987, AZT was the first medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of HIV/AIDS, “America Responds to AIDS”, and activists began to “Act Up”. Hope and action became the new moniker of the movement. In 1989, World AIDS Day was established to bring focus on this Pandemic and in 1991 the Red Ribbon became the symbol of the movement.
Stigma and ignorance have fueled this disease far too long. The widespread believe that this was a “Gay Disease” and that those who were infected were “Dirty” swept the United States and even the World. People like Ryan White and Ricky Ray were treated like outcasts in their own schools, they were assaulted with words, and their homes vandalized and even set afire. Those are just two of the millions of people world wide who have experienced hate and violence.
However, the violence does not just come from the public; it comes from government and other institutions of service. We in the United States are fortunate enough to have laws to protect people living with HIV/AIDS from discrimination. This year President Barack Obama lifted the ban on people traveling and immigrating with HIV/AIDS. The fight is not over yet.
Injustice abounds world wide. Our brothers in Uganda live in fear that their sexual orientation and HIV status may lead them to imprisonment and even death. We have come so far to be pulled back.
I am both confused and saddened by such hate. I am grateful that I have a voice, and that I can use my voice to speak out against this injustice both foreign and domestic.
Join me today, use your voice. Stand up and make a promise to talk about HIV to anyone who will listen. Stand with me and honor our ancestors, celebrate our elders, and educate our youth.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Auntie Alana
Hello Pumpkins! I hope everyone had a safe and fun Halloween?!? Sorry there was no article last week, but Auntie was under the weather.
There is so much going on in November. Remember that World Aids Day/Week is coming up so be watching for all the details.
I was told a story a few days ago from a guy that he was afraid to start dating since finding out he was HIV positive. He was scared that a guy wouldn't understand things, wouldn't want to touch him, be intimate, etc...I told him that as long as you were upfront and honest with him and taught him how to prevent the risk of getting HIV and that he was safe himself that everything would go well. I haven't heard how things went, but I am sure it will turn out great.
See pumpkins, prevention is the key to staying safe, not only for gay men, but also lesbians, bisexuals and transgender people as well. Use the condoms, dentals dams and other devices to keep yourself and others safe.
Much Love and Happiness!
Auntie Alana
Thursday, October 29, 2009
In My Not So Humble Opinion
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Project FIERCE or AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist.
Hello World…it’s P.Batt coming at ‘cha! I gotta tell you that yesterday was a long and stressful day; it almost made me forget what day it was. What day you ask? Why it was magazine day! This is the day when my favorite gay magazine arrives in my mailbox. So when I arrived home, I ran to the mailbox to see if my cellophane wrapped gift was there. It was!
After much anticipation, I tore through the cellophane like it was Christmas morning. I scanned the cover, which is always adorned with some hard-bodied beefcake. The cover read “Our Annual Underwear Issue”. Now don’t get me wrong I was still super excited, come on, hot men in underwear…Heck yeah!
After my initial excitement wore off, I began to wonder about some things. You see Bois, this post is not about this magazine; this post is about our self-esteem. I have noticed lately that many in our community have little to no self-esteem, myself included. I am not going to sit here and blame the media, but I do believe that the images in our own media help to play a role in creating or damaging self-esteem.
I am concerned about the effects that it has on our overall community self-esteem. So I decided to do some research. (Albeit not too terribly scientific) What I have learned in the past from academia and observation has lead me to believe that this type of imagery could be damaging.
First let me tell you about some things I was looking for. Being a “Man of Color” myself, I am Latino; I was looking to see how many of the cover men represented minority groups. I know that seeing people who are like me in media is so very important. Hence the GLADD Media awards! I looked to see what types of advertisements were in the magazine, and just the overall names of the issues. Here is what I found:
95% of the cover men, in the last five years, were white, scantily clad, in very masculine/assertive poses.
(Looking directly at the camera, standing, and facing forward)
3% of the cover men were African American, fully clothed, in passive poses.
(Looking away from the camera, sitting or lying down)
There were only 2 Latinos in the last five years on the cover in passive poses.
Those were the only races represented. Accurate depictions of racial/ethnic minorities are important to the community. This type of discrepancy shows that to be “beautiful” and “masculine” you have to be part of the “White Majority”. Moving on, I found that there were actually seven “Annual Underwear” issues in the last five years. (Someone doesn’t understand the concept of “Annual”); there were five “Swimwear” issues, and one “Annual Health” issue.
I also found that 65% of the advertisements were for Alcohol and tobacco, including all 60 issues back covers with an alcohol ad quoting “Be Yourself”! Mind you all the men depicted were nothing like me and my friends. Are they saying “Be Yourself” only if you look like this!
I am going to take a sidetrack here and just walk you through the “Health” issue for a second. First it was the smallest issue of the magazine in the last five years. The first advertisement in the magazine had big bold letters that said “Addicted to Beauty”. Wow! Are we really that addicted to beauty and image?
I am very concerned that the very images that we are trying to maintain are sometimes unhealthy. I am not saying that being “fit” is not healthy; however, what measures will we go to, to get there? Not to mention not one of the issues addressed mental health. The health issue did have an article about love, forgiveness, and gratitude and how it affects our facial appearance, complete with a picture of a young man with circles on his face to show how “unhappy” he is.
Let me do a little self-disclosure here. I do not always have great self-esteem. Sometimes I feel that I have to work really hard to find positive reinforcement from my community. For a long time I have been “victimized” by society because I am too: Fat, Gay, etc. I learned a very ugly defense mechanism; I would project that “victimization” onto others before they even had the chance to “victimize” me.
I have struggled to find a happy and healthy way to deal with my own issues. I have learned, and thanks to some very opinionated friends, I have come to terms with who I am. It is a journey of self discovery. On that journey I have found that, “Yes! I want to look like someone on the cover on this magazine!” However, why am I the one who has to change to fit their image of who I am supposed to be? Why can’t they meet me where I stand? I understand that is not going to change unless I take the time to make that change.
I am very concerned, brothers, that this cannibalistic attitude is making us sicker. I am not making sweeping statements about all of society. There are always exceptions to the rules. However, this game we play about who looks better, or who can get more men is not doing very much to promote self-esteem. I know I have played that game many times, but, today I quit playing that game! Today, I will start a new game, a game where I can say “You are beautiful, no matter what they say” (Christina Aguilera)
Today, I emailed a copy of this article and a letter to the editor about this. I also sent them headshots, maybe one day you will see me on the cover! I want to see more people like me, so why not just me!
In my not so humble opinion, cancel my subscriptions because I don’t need your issues!
Abrazo por todos,
Patricio!
I quickly grabbed it, leaving all the other mail in the box and ran to my room. I noticed something different about this month’s issue. It was much heavier than previous issues, so I compared it to all the issues in the last five years. (Of which I have all of them) This had to be good! What treasures awaited me betwixt the glossy covers of this epic issue. My mind began to reel with excitement. Could it be a hard-hitting exposé, a heartwarming coming out story, a call to action over a political issue, or will I be whisked away to a foreign land in a travel article?
After much anticipation, I tore through the cellophane like it was Christmas morning. I scanned the cover, which is always adorned with some hard-bodied beefcake. The cover read “Our Annual Underwear Issue”. Now don’t get me wrong I was still super excited, come on, hot men in underwear…Heck yeah!
After my initial excitement wore off, I began to wonder about some things. You see Bois, this post is not about this magazine; this post is about our self-esteem. I have noticed lately that many in our community have little to no self-esteem, myself included. I am not going to sit here and blame the media, but I do believe that the images in our own media help to play a role in creating or damaging self-esteem.
I am concerned about the effects that it has on our overall community self-esteem. So I decided to do some research. (Albeit not too terribly scientific) What I have learned in the past from academia and observation has lead me to believe that this type of imagery could be damaging.
First let me tell you about some things I was looking for. Being a “Man of Color” myself, I am Latino; I was looking to see how many of the cover men represented minority groups. I know that seeing people who are like me in media is so very important. Hence the GLADD Media awards! I looked to see what types of advertisements were in the magazine, and just the overall names of the issues. Here is what I found:
95% of the cover men, in the last five years, were white, scantily clad, in very masculine/assertive poses.
(Looking directly at the camera, standing, and facing forward)
3% of the cover men were African American, fully clothed, in passive poses.
(Looking away from the camera, sitting or lying down)
There were only 2 Latinos in the last five years on the cover in passive poses.
Those were the only races represented. Accurate depictions of racial/ethnic minorities are important to the community. This type of discrepancy shows that to be “beautiful” and “masculine” you have to be part of the “White Majority”. Moving on, I found that there were actually seven “Annual Underwear” issues in the last five years. (Someone doesn’t understand the concept of “Annual”); there were five “Swimwear” issues, and one “Annual Health” issue.
I also found that 65% of the advertisements were for Alcohol and tobacco, including all 60 issues back covers with an alcohol ad quoting “Be Yourself”! Mind you all the men depicted were nothing like me and my friends. Are they saying “Be Yourself” only if you look like this!
I am going to take a sidetrack here and just walk you through the “Health” issue for a second. First it was the smallest issue of the magazine in the last five years. The first advertisement in the magazine had big bold letters that said “Addicted to Beauty”. Wow! Are we really that addicted to beauty and image?
I am very concerned that the very images that we are trying to maintain are sometimes unhealthy. I am not saying that being “fit” is not healthy; however, what measures will we go to, to get there? Not to mention not one of the issues addressed mental health. The health issue did have an article about love, forgiveness, and gratitude and how it affects our facial appearance, complete with a picture of a young man with circles on his face to show how “unhappy” he is.
Let me do a little self-disclosure here. I do not always have great self-esteem. Sometimes I feel that I have to work really hard to find positive reinforcement from my community. For a long time I have been “victimized” by society because I am too: Fat, Gay, etc. I learned a very ugly defense mechanism; I would project that “victimization” onto others before they even had the chance to “victimize” me.
I have struggled to find a happy and healthy way to deal with my own issues. I have learned, and thanks to some very opinionated friends, I have come to terms with who I am. It is a journey of self discovery. On that journey I have found that, “Yes! I want to look like someone on the cover on this magazine!” However, why am I the one who has to change to fit their image of who I am supposed to be? Why can’t they meet me where I stand? I understand that is not going to change unless I take the time to make that change.
I am very concerned, brothers, that this cannibalistic attitude is making us sicker. I am not making sweeping statements about all of society. There are always exceptions to the rules. However, this game we play about who looks better, or who can get more men is not doing very much to promote self-esteem. I know I have played that game many times, but, today I quit playing that game! Today, I will start a new game, a game where I can say “You are beautiful, no matter what they say” (Christina Aguilera)
Today, I emailed a copy of this article and a letter to the editor about this. I also sent them headshots, maybe one day you will see me on the cover! I want to see more people like me, so why not just me!
In my not so humble opinion, cancel my subscriptions because I don’t need your issues!
Abrazo por todos,
Patricio!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Auntie Alana: Divine Experiences
Hello Pumpkins! Greetings from you Auntie Alana!!
I know that this next blog on Wednesday is about Sex, Drugs and Rocky Roads…But, I felt the desire to talk about something else that has been weighing on my heart and soul.
You see pumpkins; I had the very great pleasure to attend the 20th Anniversary Dinner for AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist last Thursday. It was a very nice evening, with a wonderful guest speaker Neil Carnes, Mayor Lueke was in attendance and even the staff and board for AMAA were there. The meal was good, conversations were enhancing and I even won a very nice gift certificate in the silent auction.
What troubles me was the lack of LGBT Community in attendance at this very important event. Now, I am not saying there weren’t members of the community there, but there wasn’t the strong showing that should have been there, to help raise money for a very important organization that helps take care of our brothers and sisters with HIV/AIDS. It was great to see some of my friends and acquaintances at this event enjoying such a wonderful time.
But, please tell me why there is this lack of community in this city? Where is the sense of unity? I get so tired of hearing about the bars bad mouthing one another, the cliques, the queens, the twinks, the bears, etc, etc, etc…that can’t be proud of who they are or the ability to show their support for anything that may or can help them in the long run. Instead, you’re too busy trying to figure out who to hook up with, where to get a fix, how drunk you can get, who you need to be seen with to be “in” instead of looking at the future, what you can do to help make a difference and make a change in our community.
I am placing a challenge on this community! I am challenging each and every one of you to start getting involved in our LGBT Community, lend a hand to help raise money for AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist, volunteer one day to help them get tasks done, attend a Project Fierce event, patronize the other gay bars in this city, stop by our local LGBT Resource Center on Mishawaka Avenue and just show your support for our community.
Get Involved! Participate!! Be Proud!!!
Much Love and Happiness to You All
Alana Blackwell
PS: If you can’t shield your rocket, leave it in your pocket!!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Auntie Alana: Divine Experiences
Hello Pumpkins! And welcome to the first of many Auntie Alana’s: Divine Experiences.
My article is going to bring everyday experiences with life to you and try to tie it in with the topics of the Wednesday Wisdom Blogs. If there are any topics that you‘d like me to touch on or even a question; don’t hesitate to drop me a line and I’ll try to shed a little light on the subject.
This week’s blog will be about internet hookups. Now, I’m not here to judge you or discourage you from using the internet to hook up or even as a way to try and meet a life partner. Lord knows your Auntie Alana has done her fair share of hooking up online and trying to find a date or even a boyfriend via the computer. With Gay.com, AOL M4M, BGC, ManHunt, the list just goes on. The only trouble with trying to meet someone online is that you never know how honest they are being with you. They can tell you everything you want to hear and sometimes that all can be a very big disappointment in the end.
What you’re Auntie Alana is going to stress to you is to always be safe and always be careful when hooking up on the internet. You can still get diseases from hooking up online just as you can hooking up with someone from a bar. It’s always the wise to know the person’s status and to be aware of your surroundings. It’s always good to have a fun time, but it’s even better to be safe and protect yourself and those around you.
Well pumpkin, its time for me to go. Remember to always be safe and protect yourself and those around you. It will be the smartest thing you can do. Oh! One more thing pumpkins…before you go love it, make sure you glove it!
Much Love and Happiness To You All!
Auntie Alana
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Project FIERCE or AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Wisdom Wednesdays
Hello Pumpkins! It’s The Divine Miss B…Alana Blackwell here to share my thoughts and views on HIV Testing!
It seems like just yesterday at the tender age of 22 that I was coming out in the GLBT Community, going to the clubs, meeting new friends and looking for that ever special person to be my boyfriend. Coming from a small farming community like I did, this was all very new and scary to me! I was hearing terms like barebacking, rimming and well you get my point…I’m sure it isn’t anything none of you have heard before!
It was also about this same time that I really started to hear things like are you “clean”, we won’t go there on what I thought they really meant. I also was being asked are you positive, negative, what’s your status? That’s when it hit me; a guy who turned out to be one of my best friends told me one day that he was HIV positive, he had been having unsafe sex with a couple of different guys and he became infected. It was then that I learned what those terms meant and how they would forever affect my life, friendships and relationships. In the 18 years that I have been out, I’ve lost about 10 friends to AIDS, have friends who are HIV positive and even still have friends who don’t make the wisest of choices when it comes to having sex with multiple partners and not playing it safe.
That very same day my friend told me he was positive I went out and got myself tested. It was one of the scariest moments of my life. The worst part was the waiting for your results; they didn’t have the rapid tests like they do today. I remember to this day how I felt when that nurse walked into the room and told me I was HIV negative; I set in that room with her and just cried, she reminded me that I was negative and I told her I understood that, but hadn’t always made the wisest decisions myself at times during sexual encounters. It was from that day on that I was tested every 6 months faithfully and to this day I still get tested and am still HIV negative because I decided to make wiser choices in my life.
You see pumpkins; we are only given one life to live on this earth. It is our responsibility to take care of ourselves, keep ourselves healthy and to protect ourselves from disease, abuses, etc…I can’t judge you for what you want to do with your life, how you want to take care of yourself and the decisions you make that may affect your life and possibly the lives of others. I can and will offer you my opinion!
Getting tested, whether you’re gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning and even straight; will be one of the smartest things you will ever do in your life. Practicing safe sex, using a dental dam, not sharing needles, knowing how to be safe and play safe will only benefit you and those close to you!
Remember…Life May Be A Drag…GETTING TESTED ISN’T! Oh! One other thing…Don’t Be a Fool, Wrap You’re Tool!
Much Love and Happiness to You!
Alana Blackwell
The Divine Miss B.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
RV144: A Phase III HIV Vaccine Trial.
By Patrick Battani
09/25/2009
You may have heard about an HIV Vaccine that is showing some positive results in Thailand. While these are moderate results, there is still some hope that this will further our research efforts. Vaccines are an effective way to help curb the spread of a disease. Although, vaccine research is not new, this is the first time that we have shown some positive progress.
The thought of an AIDS Vaccine came about the time we discovered the disease. In 1984 some of the Nations top researchers and medical power houses said that we would have a vaccine in two years. It is now 2009 and we just hearing about something that could be promising. As of May 2009, AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition (AVAC) reports that there 31HIV vaccine studies currently being conducted world wide.
Many people have wondered why it has taken so long to come up with any type of progress to a vaccine. It is about understanding the difficulty of creating a vaccine for this disease. HIV is a unique virus. Two things make HIV difficult to deal with. One is that HIV can change rapidly; and the other is there are many different forms of this one virus. There are many different subtypes.
Most vaccines teach our body to create an immune response to the disease. So really when we are vaccinated against something, for example the flu, we are really fighting off “reinfection”. Effective vaccines use dead or “life-attenuated” (less potent form) forms of viruses. When HIV dies it no longer has the ability to create the necessary immune response. Also, we are not just going to go around infecting people with HIV, it obviously has some real ethical and safety issues.
To further make things more difficult, most vaccines are created for things that we are only going to come in contact with infrequently; and most vaccines are created for things that we will be infected through the respiratory or gastrointestinal tract. HIV is often contracted through the genital tract. These difficulties have proven to be the downfall of finding a viable vaccine.
Now that you understand a little about the difficulty of creating a virus, let us get back to the “Big News” today: The RV-144 study! RV-144 is a Phase III HIV Vaccine trial that was conducted in Thailand. It is considered the largest human HIV vaccine trial with over 16,000 participants. This study was conducted by the Thai Ministry of Public Health and was partially funded by the U.S. Government through various agencies and U.S. Army Medical Research and Material Command.
The findings of this study were moderate. They found that using the trial vaccine regimen was 31.2% effective at preventing HIV infection. This means that we have evidence that it may be possible to create an effective and safe HIV vaccine in the future.
There are some factors that you should know about this clinical trial. This vaccine was based on HIV strains that are commonly found in Thailand. That means the viral subtypes in the U.S. and Europe may differ from those in the Thailand. This shows that continued research needs to be conducted to make a viable vaccine. Much like the flu vaccine does not cover all forms of the flu; this regimen may not cover all form of HIV.
There is a lot of hope on the horizon about new HIV prevention technology. I will continue to try to update you on the goings on in the world. If you want more information about new technologies being researched, you can check out:
The AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition: http://www.avac.org/
Ministry of Public Health, Thailand: eng.moph.go.th
U.S. Military HIV Research Program: www.hivresearch.org
The International Rectal Microbicide Advocates: http://www.rectalmicrobicides.org/
PrEP Watch: www.PrEPwatch.org
Fauci, A.S. (1996). An HIV vaccine: breaking the paradigms. Proceedings of the Association of American Physicians , 6-13.
U.S. Military HIV Research Program. (2009, September ). FAQ's. Retrieved September 24, 2009, from U.S. Military HIV Research Program: http://www.hivresearch.org/phase3/factsheet.html
09/25/2009
You may have heard about an HIV Vaccine that is showing some positive results in Thailand. While these are moderate results, there is still some hope that this will further our research efforts. Vaccines are an effective way to help curb the spread of a disease. Although, vaccine research is not new, this is the first time that we have shown some positive progress.
The thought of an AIDS Vaccine came about the time we discovered the disease. In 1984 some of the Nations top researchers and medical power houses said that we would have a vaccine in two years. It is now 2009 and we just hearing about something that could be promising. As of May 2009, AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition (AVAC) reports that there 31HIV vaccine studies currently being conducted world wide.
Many people have wondered why it has taken so long to come up with any type of progress to a vaccine. It is about understanding the difficulty of creating a vaccine for this disease. HIV is a unique virus. Two things make HIV difficult to deal with. One is that HIV can change rapidly; and the other is there are many different forms of this one virus. There are many different subtypes.
Most vaccines teach our body to create an immune response to the disease. So really when we are vaccinated against something, for example the flu, we are really fighting off “reinfection”. Effective vaccines use dead or “life-attenuated” (less potent form) forms of viruses. When HIV dies it no longer has the ability to create the necessary immune response. Also, we are not just going to go around infecting people with HIV, it obviously has some real ethical and safety issues.
To further make things more difficult, most vaccines are created for things that we are only going to come in contact with infrequently; and most vaccines are created for things that we will be infected through the respiratory or gastrointestinal tract. HIV is often contracted through the genital tract. These difficulties have proven to be the downfall of finding a viable vaccine.
Now that you understand a little about the difficulty of creating a virus, let us get back to the “Big News” today: The RV-144 study! RV-144 is a Phase III HIV Vaccine trial that was conducted in Thailand. It is considered the largest human HIV vaccine trial with over 16,000 participants. This study was conducted by the Thai Ministry of Public Health and was partially funded by the U.S. Government through various agencies and U.S. Army Medical Research and Material Command.
The findings of this study were moderate. They found that using the trial vaccine regimen was 31.2% effective at preventing HIV infection. This means that we have evidence that it may be possible to create an effective and safe HIV vaccine in the future.
There are some factors that you should know about this clinical trial. This vaccine was based on HIV strains that are commonly found in Thailand. That means the viral subtypes in the U.S. and Europe may differ from those in the Thailand. This shows that continued research needs to be conducted to make a viable vaccine. Much like the flu vaccine does not cover all forms of the flu; this regimen may not cover all form of HIV.
There is a lot of hope on the horizon about new HIV prevention technology. I will continue to try to update you on the goings on in the world. If you want more information about new technologies being researched, you can check out:
The AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition: http://www.avac.org/
Ministry of Public Health, Thailand: eng.moph.go.th
U.S. Military HIV Research Program: www.hivresearch.org
The International Rectal Microbicide Advocates: http://www.rectalmicrobicides.org/
PrEP Watch: www.PrEPwatch.org
Fauci, A.S. (1996). An HIV vaccine: breaking the paradigms. Proceedings of the Association of American Physicians , 6-13.
U.S. Military HIV Research Program. (2009, September ). FAQ's. Retrieved September 24, 2009, from U.S. Military HIV Research Program: http://www.hivresearch.org/phase3/factsheet.html
Monday, September 14, 2009
Up Coming Events
Hey There!
There are some upcoming events for Project FIERCE:
September Status Update!
September 26 from 12-4pm at the Truman's Entertainment Complex.
This will include free HIV testing and a Mini-health fair.
See you all there!
There are some upcoming events for Project FIERCE:
September Status Update!
September 26 from 12-4pm at the Truman's Entertainment Complex.
This will include free HIV testing and a Mini-health fair.
See you all there!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
How to be a BAD Bottom!
As I promised you I am starting a series of posts about “risk”. We are going to take this one step further. I want to talk about position! I mean Top, Bottom, Versatile, and everything else in between. Before I start this blog, I want to make sure that everyone understands that this is strictly about information and prevention of disease. (i.e. HIV/STD). No information on this blog can replace the advice of a Doctor.
Today’s post is about the Bottom! In the public health world we refer to bottoms as the “Anal Receptive Partner”. There are some things that bottoms should know about having a healthy…well, bottom. I want you all to be BAD Bottoms! That means that you have to take care of yourself Before, After, and During sexual intercourse.
Before
Let’s start at the beginning…a very good place to start. There is an enormous pressure but on the bottom to be immaculate. This has cause some discourse in the community and some major miscommunications. This has also lead to the misuse of hygiene products.
There is a lot of debate on whether enemas and douches are safe. Here is some information that I found about the health of using these products. I do not endorse or condone the use of these products. Again ask your Doctor if these things are right for you.
Many men have turned to using Feminine hygienic products or “Douche”. These are products that force a stream of water or other chemicals into the vagina to “clean”. There are a lot of debates about douching. Here is the reality, vaginal douching is actually not a healthy practice. The American Journal of Public Health has shown studies that say it reduces the chance of pregnancy and can also change the Ph levels leading to infection.
Now, I know that men do not have vaginas, but, if it isn’t health for the vagina it isn’t health for the anus. The anus has mucous membranes which tears easily. Where there is tearing there is a chance of infection. Not to mention the chemicals in douche can actually leave the anus in an unhealthy state.
Enemas of any kind can irritate the lining of the bowel. The bowel contains bacteria, which help digest food. The bowel lining keeps bacteria out of the bloodstream. After an enema or douche, these bacteria, which are not harmful when they stay inside the colon, can be released into your bloodstream and can cause serious illness.
Enemas have other risks as well; using enemas more than once a week can interfere with the chemical balance of the body, and cause dangerous changes in blood levels of potassium and sodium. In severe cases, these imbalances cause seizures. Over time, people who use enemas can become so constipated that they cannot move their bowels at all without an enema. Let’s be real nobody likes a cranky bottom!
Discuss this issue with your partner. You may be more concerned about cleanliness than he is. He may not be bothered by a small amount of feces. Using a towel will protect the sheets, and a condom (which you are using every time, right?) will keep his penis clean and protect you from infections.
Generally, people move their bowels more easily after eating. This is because eating causes the intestines to contract, moving feces towards the rectum. So (assuming you are not constipated), if you have moved your bowels that day and avoid eating for a few hours before sex, there should not be much feces in your rectum. Before sex, wipe your anal area with a moist cloth to remove any residue. It’s better to clean with a cloth rather than toilet tissue, which tends to shred and leave bits attached to the skin.
During
Is this your first time? Mine too! Using the anus for sex can be very pleasurable. There are millions of nerve endings in the anus and for men the act of anal sex could stimulate the prostate. I know that you are eager to find out what feels good for you…but slow down there turbo. Let’s talk about anal sex.
First, a penis is far to large (or at least some hope), to just go in the anus right away. You may want to start with something smaller. Using a finger or a small sex toy can teach a bottom how to relax and ease your way into the bigger things.
During sexually intercourse there are many ways to protect the bottom. The obvious way is to use a condom and water-based lubricant. This will protect you and your partner if used correctly. The water-based lube will help avoiding damage to the anal opening and walls.
Many people ask me how much lube should I use? Well the answer is simple…A LOT! I am not saying you have to set a lube wrestling ring in your bedroom. The more lube you have the easier things slide. As the bottom, you know when it is too dry or hurts too much! You’d betta tell somebody! Communication is not only a key to a healthy relationship but a healthy sex life. Just remember to use something that is safe to use with latex condoms. The lube should not be petroleum based or contain nonoxynol-9.
If you choose to have bareback sex, make sure that you both know your HIV/STD status. Once again make sure that you are using enough lube. This will cut down on the tearing, which decreases your risk for HIV/STD.
After
Now that you are all done…that doesn’t mean you can forget about you bottom. Anal health is very important. You need to make sure that you are getting you anus check regularly. Some STDs do not have symptoms that show in the anus. I would also recommend that you talk to your Dr. about “Anal Pap Smears”.
Anal Papilloma is a concern among Gay and Bi men. Anal Papilloma is cause by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). This could cause warts, and may cause cancer in anus or penis. Here is some more information that you can take to your Dr. about Anal Paps. http://aids.about.com/cs/conditions/a/analpaps.htm
There are some other issues related to sexual health such as Anal Fissures and Hemorrhoids. Fissures are small tears in the skin or tissue of the anus. Hemorrhoids are inflamed enlarged veins. These are things that if you are engaged in anal sex you need to make sure that you are getting checked.
Just make sure to make a bottom check up, part of your regular testing routine.
So that’s it Bois! Make sure that you are regularly checked for HIV, Syphilis and other STDs. If you haven’t already go out and get your Hepatitis Vaccines for A & B to avoid the spread of those diseases. I hope this helped a little bit! If you have further questions please comment here or email me at pbattani@aidsministries.org. Remember, be a BAD Bottom!
Bottoms Up! Stay Healthy and Be FIERCE,
Patricio
Today’s post is about the Bottom! In the public health world we refer to bottoms as the “Anal Receptive Partner”. There are some things that bottoms should know about having a healthy…well, bottom. I want you all to be BAD Bottoms! That means that you have to take care of yourself Before, After, and During sexual intercourse.
Before
Let’s start at the beginning…a very good place to start. There is an enormous pressure but on the bottom to be immaculate. This has cause some discourse in the community and some major miscommunications. This has also lead to the misuse of hygiene products.
There is a lot of debate on whether enemas and douches are safe. Here is some information that I found about the health of using these products. I do not endorse or condone the use of these products. Again ask your Doctor if these things are right for you.
Many men have turned to using Feminine hygienic products or “Douche”. These are products that force a stream of water or other chemicals into the vagina to “clean”. There are a lot of debates about douching. Here is the reality, vaginal douching is actually not a healthy practice. The American Journal of Public Health has shown studies that say it reduces the chance of pregnancy and can also change the Ph levels leading to infection.
Now, I know that men do not have vaginas, but, if it isn’t health for the vagina it isn’t health for the anus. The anus has mucous membranes which tears easily. Where there is tearing there is a chance of infection. Not to mention the chemicals in douche can actually leave the anus in an unhealthy state.
Enemas of any kind can irritate the lining of the bowel. The bowel contains bacteria, which help digest food. The bowel lining keeps bacteria out of the bloodstream. After an enema or douche, these bacteria, which are not harmful when they stay inside the colon, can be released into your bloodstream and can cause serious illness.
Enemas have other risks as well; using enemas more than once a week can interfere with the chemical balance of the body, and cause dangerous changes in blood levels of potassium and sodium. In severe cases, these imbalances cause seizures. Over time, people who use enemas can become so constipated that they cannot move their bowels at all without an enema. Let’s be real nobody likes a cranky bottom!
Discuss this issue with your partner. You may be more concerned about cleanliness than he is. He may not be bothered by a small amount of feces. Using a towel will protect the sheets, and a condom (which you are using every time, right?) will keep his penis clean and protect you from infections.
Generally, people move their bowels more easily after eating. This is because eating causes the intestines to contract, moving feces towards the rectum. So (assuming you are not constipated), if you have moved your bowels that day and avoid eating for a few hours before sex, there should not be much feces in your rectum. Before sex, wipe your anal area with a moist cloth to remove any residue. It’s better to clean with a cloth rather than toilet tissue, which tends to shred and leave bits attached to the skin.
During
Is this your first time? Mine too! Using the anus for sex can be very pleasurable. There are millions of nerve endings in the anus and for men the act of anal sex could stimulate the prostate. I know that you are eager to find out what feels good for you…but slow down there turbo. Let’s talk about anal sex.
First, a penis is far to large (or at least some hope), to just go in the anus right away. You may want to start with something smaller. Using a finger or a small sex toy can teach a bottom how to relax and ease your way into the bigger things.
During sexually intercourse there are many ways to protect the bottom. The obvious way is to use a condom and water-based lubricant. This will protect you and your partner if used correctly. The water-based lube will help avoiding damage to the anal opening and walls.
Many people ask me how much lube should I use? Well the answer is simple…A LOT! I am not saying you have to set a lube wrestling ring in your bedroom. The more lube you have the easier things slide. As the bottom, you know when it is too dry or hurts too much! You’d betta tell somebody! Communication is not only a key to a healthy relationship but a healthy sex life. Just remember to use something that is safe to use with latex condoms. The lube should not be petroleum based or contain nonoxynol-9.
If you choose to have bareback sex, make sure that you both know your HIV/STD status. Once again make sure that you are using enough lube. This will cut down on the tearing, which decreases your risk for HIV/STD.
After
Now that you are all done…that doesn’t mean you can forget about you bottom. Anal health is very important. You need to make sure that you are getting you anus check regularly. Some STDs do not have symptoms that show in the anus. I would also recommend that you talk to your Dr. about “Anal Pap Smears”.
Anal Papilloma is a concern among Gay and Bi men. Anal Papilloma is cause by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). This could cause warts, and may cause cancer in anus or penis. Here is some more information that you can take to your Dr. about Anal Paps. http://aids.about.com/cs/conditions/a/analpaps.htm
There are some other issues related to sexual health such as Anal Fissures and Hemorrhoids. Fissures are small tears in the skin or tissue of the anus. Hemorrhoids are inflamed enlarged veins. These are things that if you are engaged in anal sex you need to make sure that you are getting checked.
Just make sure to make a bottom check up, part of your regular testing routine.
So that’s it Bois! Make sure that you are regularly checked for HIV, Syphilis and other STDs. If you haven’t already go out and get your Hepatitis Vaccines for A & B to avoid the spread of those diseases. I hope this helped a little bit! If you have further questions please comment here or email me at pbattani@aidsministries.org. Remember, be a BAD Bottom!
Bottoms Up! Stay Healthy and Be FIERCE,
Patricio
Monday, August 3, 2009
FREE CONDOMS
Who doesn’t like to get something free? We now you can. www.getfreecondoms.org is giving away free condoms to anyone who wants them! Check out the link in the side bar! Head over and get free condoms!
Stay Health and Be FIERCE!
Stay Health and Be FIERCE!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Oral Sex and HIV/STD Transmission
So I have received a lot of questions about oral sex and risk of HIV transmission. There is a lot of research and information out there about this topic. So I am going to attempt to decipher it for you.
Can I contract HIV through Oral Sex?
The answer is yes! Studies in the United States have shown that the percent of risk ranges from 1% to 7%. However, there is no reliable way of really assessing the precise degree of risk. In an article from AIDSmap.com, researchers in the United Kingdom say “…oral sex carries a small but real risk.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued this fact sheet about Oral Sex and HIV. http://img.thebody.com/cdc/2009/oralsex.pdf
What other STD/STI’s can be transmitted orally?
You can transmit HIV, Herpes, HPV, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Chlamydia, and Hepatitis B.
Can I protect myself from Oral HIV/STD Infections?
YES! The good news is that they do make barrier methods for oral sex. They make flavored condoms and Flavored Dental Dams. Both of these are latex barriers that help protect you from transmitting a disease. Both of these products are available in our offices both in Elkhart or South Bend. You can order dental dams online at http://www.sheerglydedams.com/
Other ways of protecting yourself:
1) Abstain
2) Mutual Monogamy (only having one sexual partner)
3) Reduce the number of people you have sexual encounters with.
4) Do not swallow or get semen or vaginal fluids in the mouth.
5) Do not have oral sex while you have obvious cuts, blisters, sores on or in the mouth.
I hope this helps!
Stay Health and Be FIERCE!
Gadd, Chris (2004). Oral sex between men a 'small but real risk' for HIV transmission, survey shows. AIDSmap, Retrieved July 28,2009, from http://www.aidsmap.com/en/news/8C50587D-7487-4440-BCFD-3AF7C9EE92C3.asp
Can I contract HIV through Oral Sex?
The answer is yes! Studies in the United States have shown that the percent of risk ranges from 1% to 7%. However, there is no reliable way of really assessing the precise degree of risk. In an article from AIDSmap.com, researchers in the United Kingdom say “…oral sex carries a small but real risk.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued this fact sheet about Oral Sex and HIV. http://img.thebody.com/cdc/2009/oralsex.pdf
What other STD/STI’s can be transmitted orally?
You can transmit HIV, Herpes, HPV, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Chlamydia, and Hepatitis B.
Can I protect myself from Oral HIV/STD Infections?
YES! The good news is that they do make barrier methods for oral sex. They make flavored condoms and Flavored Dental Dams. Both of these are latex barriers that help protect you from transmitting a disease. Both of these products are available in our offices both in Elkhart or South Bend. You can order dental dams online at http://www.sheerglydedams.com/
Other ways of protecting yourself:
1) Abstain
2) Mutual Monogamy (only having one sexual partner)
3) Reduce the number of people you have sexual encounters with.
4) Do not swallow or get semen or vaginal fluids in the mouth.
5) Do not have oral sex while you have obvious cuts, blisters, sores on or in the mouth.
I hope this helps!
Stay Health and Be FIERCE!
Gadd, Chris (2004). Oral sex between men a 'small but real risk' for HIV transmission, survey shows. AIDSmap, Retrieved July 28,2009, from http://www.aidsmap.com/en/news/8C50587D-7487-4440-BCFD-3AF7C9EE92C3.asp
TESTING HOURS AND LOCATIONS:
AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist
201 South William Street, South Bend, Indiana
M-Thur. 9 am - 4 pm F: 9am - 4pm
Little T’s Sports Bar
In the Truman’s Entertainment Complex
100 Center Street, 100 Center, Mishawaka, Indiana
1&3 Thursday 8 pm - 10 pm
2&4 Thursday 12:30 –1:30pm
Vickie’s Bar
112 West Monroe Street, South Bend, Indiana 46601
First Thursday of every month from 2pm - 4 pm
The Club
23861 Highway 33 East
2 & 4 Thursday from 8-10pm
AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist
201 South William Street, South Bend, Indiana
M-Thur. 9 am - 4 pm F: 9am - 4pm
Little T’s Sports Bar
In the Truman’s Entertainment Complex
100 Center Street, 100 Center, Mishawaka, Indiana
1&3 Thursday 8 pm - 10 pm
2&4 Thursday 12:30 –1:30pm
Vickie’s Bar
112 West Monroe Street, South Bend, Indiana 46601
First Thursday of every month from 2pm - 4 pm
The Club
23861 Highway 33 East
2 & 4 Thursday from 8-10pm
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