AFEW: Projects >> Mass Media Campaign on Safer Sex & Solidarity with PLWHA (Ukraine) >> Campaign Leaflet

Campaign Leaflet

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We all know about the existence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS. Many of us are also aware that we may avoid infection and unintended pregnancies by using a condom. We may know about it, but sometimes do not take measures for personal protection. Sometimes it may seem that HIV/AIDS and other STI-related issues do not concern us. But is this really so?

This leaflet will help you to understand what HIV and AIDS are, what the differences are between them, how dangerous these diseases are, and how to prevent infection. You will also find here information about sexually transmitted infections (STIs), condoms and safe sex. It may be helpful in making the right decision in order to protect your health.

HIV AND AIDS. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?
Many people think that HIV and AIDS are the same. This is a misconception.

HIV is a virus that damages the immune system

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) was identified in the early 80s of the 20th century. By now, the nature and structure of the virus has been identified, and its' ways of transmission and viability have been well documented.

When someone becomes infected with HIV, it begins to attack their immune system which is the body's defence against illness. This process is not visible.

A person infected with HIV may look and feel perfectly well for many years, and they may not know that they are infected. Then, as the person's immune system weakens, they become vulnerable to illnesses, many of which they would normally fight off.

HIV can be detected in the body through a special blood test approximately 25 days to three months after a person contracts the virus by testing for antibodies to the virus. The period between when a person contracts HIV until antibodies to HIV appear in blood stream is called 'the window period'.

When a person is infected with HIV, they are likely as time goes by to be ill more and more often. A person is said to have AIDS (e.g., Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) when they develop one of a number of particularly severe illnesses, usually several years after first becoming infected with HIV.

Thus, HIV and AIDS are not the same. HIV is a virus that suppresses the immune system, whereas AIDS is a complex of diseases and health problems arising in an HIV-positive person against a background of low immunity.

There is only one way to find out if one is HIV positive - to have a blood test.

How does one avoid HIV transmission? In what situations is there a danger of becoming infected? And, what contacts with people living with HIV/AIDS are safe?

How is HIV transmitted?
There are several possible ways of contracting HIV:
· through unprotected (i.e., without a condom) penetrative sex;
· through using and sharing syringes, needles, and other injecting equipment;
· through using and sharing non-sterile piercing or tattooing equipment;
· through using and sharing razors and/or tooth brushes where there is a visible trace of blood;
· from an HIV-positive mother to her (unborn) child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.

Thus, HIV is transmitted through blood, sperm, vaginal secretions and a mother's milk, but not through other bodily fluids (such as saliva, sweat, tears, urine and faeces).

You are also at risk when you use alcohol and drugs

Using drugs may adversely affect your health.

Injecting drug use is the most harmful, and can lead to the transmission of HIV, hepatitis B and С, and other infection diseases. Infections can get into the blood stream through the sharing of injecting equipment such as syringes or needles, and also through other injecting equipment (i.e., filters, water and dishes used for the preparation of solutions.

When solutions have been prepared using blood products, there is a very high risk of infection, given that the preparation could also contain dangerous disease pathogens.

You should not forget that alcohol is also a drug. When under the influence of alcohol, a person may lose control which may result in insouciant actions.

How HIV is not transmitted?
HIV and AIDS-related issues cause fear and anxiety, which are often exaggerated. People are afraid of becoming HIV positive through routine, everyday contact. In fact, these fears are groundless and contact with persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) is absolutely safe. The routes of HIV transmission are well documented and have been empirically demonstrated.

HIV can not be transmitted:
· through shaking hands or by hugging;
· through sweat or tears;
· through coughing or sneezing;
· by using the same plates or bed linens;
· by using the same toilet and/or bath;
· through sporting activities;
· by being in the same room;
· in public transport;
· through animal or insect bites; or,
· through kissing/saliva. This is because the viral concentration in saliva is too low to allow for transmission of the virus. In all HIV/AIDS studies, there has been no documented and/or reported case of transmission occurring in these ways.

Taking precautions
It is possible to prevent becoming infected with HIV. There is a simple and accessible way to protect your own health and the health of your partner - that is, through safer sex practices.

Safe sex means that somebody else's blood, sperm or vaginal secretions can not enter your blood stream.

This means that you can:
· kiss;
· lie close together, cuddle;
· caress or massage one other.

But, if you have penetrative sexual contact, you must always use a condom.

You should know that some STIs can be contracted through contact between mucous membranes. For this reason, when engaging in oral sex, it is necessary to use a condom and / or a latex napkin (you can otherwise use a condom cut lengthwise to replace the latex napkin, or even use plastic food wrapper).

You should also remember that when you and your partner use 'sex toys', HIV and STI can still be transmitted. That is why during such contact, protection is still needed and each person should use their own condom.

Safe sex is the most reliable method of preventing HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, and it is also a convenient and safe method of family planning. Safe sex and condom use solve another important problem: the prevention of unwanted pregnancies.

Undoubtedly, drug users should also protect themselves during sexual contact.

Knowledge of HIV transmission routes allows us to evaluate our risk of being infected and to take precautionary measures. Regular safer sex practice and condom use prevent the transmission of HIV and STIs, and to prevent unwanted pregnancies.

If you have concerns regarding whether you are HIV-positive, you should consult with a physician immediately. Reliable information, received at consultation with a specialist, will help to clear out the situation and dispel ungrounded fears.

Sexually transmitted infections
When practicing unsafe penetrative sex (i.e., without a condom) you can become infected not only with HIV, but also with other STIs. These infections are very common and may lead to serious health problems such as infertility if they are not treated in time. Moreover, individuals who already have an STI are especially vulnerable to HIV infection. The virus is more likely to enter into the human body through ulcers, wounds, and other injuries to mucous membrane caused by STIs.

Almost 20 STIs have been identified, including HIV/AIDS. The following are a few of the more common STIs:
· Syphilis
· Gonorrhoea
· Trichomoniasis
· Chlamydia
· Genital herpes
· Genital warts
· Candidosis
· Hepatitis B - an infectious liver disease

Do not delay a visit to the doctor
Do not delay a visit to your doctor if you notice the following symptoms:
· slimy pus secretions from the penis, vagina or anus;
· a burning sensation when urinating;
· injuries, blisters, or warts on the penis, in the vagina, anus or mouth regions;
· inflammations around the genital regions or on the genitals.

You should not torture yourself by doing nothing! These infections cannot be cured by negligence. If you or your partner discover any of the above listed symptoms, you should visit your doctor immediately. The majority of STIs are curable, especially if they are determined during their initial stages. If not treated in a timely manner, STIs can pose serious health risks.

If you have had an unprotected sexual encounter and suspect that you may have contracted an STI, visit your doctor immediately, even if you do not have any symptoms. Do not attempt to treat yourself, follow friends' advice, or count on rumours related to treatment methods. If you attempt self-treatment, you are sure to fail and the condition could become chronic. That is why it is so important to consult with a physician as soon as possible - the infection will not be cured by itself.

Condoms
A condom is a very solid covering made of thin latex, which is placed over the penis. Condoms provide protection from HIV infection, other STIs, and unplanned pregnancy. If condoms are used properly (see below), they provide the most effective protection against HIV/AIDS and many other STIs. A condom is the only means of effective protection which does not have any side effects when used. Numerous studies have dispelled myths that suggest condoms have interstices through which the HIV virus can pass.

How to use a condom
· Avoid any contact between the penis and the vagina or anus before the condom has been put on;
· Open the packet carefully. Be sure not to damage the condom with sharp finger nails or jewellery;
· Put the condom on only when the penis is completely erect;
· There must be some space at the tip of the condom to hold the semen. For this reason, most condoms have a teat. Squeeze either the tip of the condom (i.e., about one centimetre) or the teat tightly so that there is no air in it, and unroll the condom;
· Never use oil, Vaseline, or other creams, because these damage the latex. If you want to use a lubricant, make sure that it is water-based;
· After ejaculation, withdraw the penis immediately. Hold on to the condom while you are doing so. If you wait too long and the penis becomes limp, the condom could slip off;
· Throw away the used condom in a rubbish bin;
· Use a condom only once;
· Do not use two condoms on top of each other because the friction causes them to tear.

All of us need time to become accustomed with something new. When using a condom for the first time, you may feel uncomfortable. It may be better to practice putting them on alone before you do use them with a partner. This will make condom use significantly easier with a sexual partner.

Perhaps, it will take some time to get used to practicing safer sex. But, the moment of real satisfaction from safe sex will certainly come!

5 good reasons why you should use a condom
1. Using a condom is very simple - consultation with a doctor is not required, and it is possible to get a condom in any drugstore or supermarket
2. It is extremely reliable
3. It provides protection from unwanted pregnancies
4. It removes the worry of trying to determine whether a partner deserves your trust, whether you've known him/her for: 'five days', 'two weeks', 'ten years', 'I can not recall how long I have known him/her', or 'I am seeing him/her for the first and last time' (chose the version which best matches your situation!)
5. It is convenient because it is easy to carry with you.

Regardless of your relationship with a partner, you always have a reason to use a condom. If you have a person with whom you want to spend your life with, a condom will help you to avoid unwanted pregnancies. If you have not made a choice yet, and you do not have a steady partner, safe sex should be an important part of your life.

Talk to your partner about it
How to start to talk 'about it'?
We can easily discuss sexual issues with our friends, but we are ashamed of talking about it with a partner. Safe sex is a natural and simple thing. Show your desire to use a condom to your partner. If you are still hesitant and can not start talking, just take out a condom. You can do it in a joking manner. Your suggestion to use a condom does not mean that you do not trust your partner. On the contrary, it means that you care for one another and that you are a responsible person. If your partner still refuses to use a condom, be persistent. Once and for all, decide that you will practice safer sex. After you make this decision, your partner and you will feel much better.

Above all, do not forget that you can always reject sex if you can not persuade your partner about the necessity of condom use. You can offer to discuss the issue next time you meet or by reading this brochure together.

Purchasing a condom
If you do not have a condom at the most important moment when you need it, you may not always be motivated to go to the pharmacy to get it. It is better that you think of it beforehand - always have a condom with you. You can keep it in a separate section of a bag or purse (although keeping it with cash can damage the package integrity and the condom itself), but not in the pocket of your jeans, where it can be damaged by the constant warmth.

Who should be responsible for purchasing a condom - a man or a woman? The answer seems to be obvious: 'Surely, both of them, if they care about their health'! However, in reality, women shift this responsibility on to men, as well as the responsibility for the safety of sex and the consequences for one's health. Would it be better to take the initiative and to propose to use a condom? Perhaps, the best option is to have a condom with you, which will provide certainty in your preparedness at any moment.

If you are a contemporary and civilized person, purchasing a condom is as natural as buying chewing gum or aspirin. Buy condoms only of high quality which are produced by well-known pharmaceutical companies and which are sold in drugstores and large shops. Pay attention to the expiration date and the stamp that confirms that the condom was produced in accordance with international standards. Certainly, condoms of high quality cost a bit more, but at the same time they will not let you down at the most important moment. Furthermore, they do not diminish sexual pleasure, and various forms and colours of condoms will make your sexual life less monotonous. In order to decrease the friction between the condom and the vaginal walls, lubricants may be used. These make condom use more convenient and improve sensations when having sex, increasing satisfaction. Each condom packet includes instructions regarding how to use it, and complete information regarding the place and time of production and from which raw materials they are made. You can also find in the instruction details if the condom was packaged with a lubricant and how to store condoms.

Life is full of joy and pleasure. When protecting our health, we preserve the joy of life!

People Living with HIV/AIDS

When discussing the HIV/AIDS issue, we must not forget about people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). We should not forget that support from society and from those who surround them is very important.

Different people have very different feelings in situations concerning HIV/AIDS. For some, this topic is quite abstract and they are interested only in how widespread the virus is and how contagious it is. For others, it entails conversations and rumours that abound in their circle concerning someone unfamiliar. And for still others, it is a very serious and vital issue because this problem has touched them or their relatives: either through a friend, a colleague, a relative, and simply a good acquaintance.

There are some common emotions which we all feel when we face PLWHA. Many, in the beginning, experience a fear of getting HIV. This is a normal reaction. The reason for this fear is that people do not have accurate knowledge regarding how the disease is and is not transmitted. As a rule, receiving accurate information helps people to overcome that fear. When people see that others communicate in a normal manner and without any fear of PLWHA, it fosters societal acceptance. Additionally, a conversation with a physician that the person trusts is very useful. A professional opinion can confirm or refute some 'facts' that people read in books or the mass media.

Some people say that reactions such as fear of PLWHA are similar to the feelings one experiences when they find themselves in an unfamiliar environment: you do not know the rules of behaviour, what sort of contact is possible, or what to say -- what is permissible or taboo during conversations. They may not know what will offend the person or which words may be harmful. In reality, a discussion with a PLWHA does not differ from normal conversations with other people. The main thing to remember is be yourself.

We would like to show the point of view of a person living with HIV. Perhaps, an HIV-positive person can better express what he feels about the attitudes of people around him and how he would like his relationships with them to be.

Igor, 27
There is an association in society that HIV is a negative phenomenon and that all HIV positive persons are bad -- that HIV is a disease only affecting people from risk groups. But, other people also get infected. An humane attitude from others reduces the fear of associated with HIV and makes dialogue possible.

I think this can be achieved by giving people more information.

With regards to peoples' reactions to the knowledge that you are HIV-positive, everything depends on peoples' perceptions. A lot of people are afraid. Even my best friends visit me less often now that they know I am HIV-positive.

HIV-positive people lead absolutely normal lives. However, most people do not realise that someone who has HIV can live a full-fledged life for quite some time. HIV-positive people have a very different opinion about their disease than the people from mainstream society.

We are not falling to pieces. I can say today that HIV has improved my life: I do not smoke, I do not drink alcohol, I do not use drugs, and I welcome each new day.

I would like to see a more humane attitude in people. I cannot demand it, but it would be good if people at the very least have access to more information.

I don't need pity -- I want people to treat me as a completely normal guy, and to not remind me. I just want to be myself. Usually, I have to educate people, to tell them about the virus.

A lot of people change their attitude after meeting people with HIV. This definitely works.

When one sees an HIV-positive person for what they are - that is, a completely normal person -- their attitude changes. He or she can see that this is a normal person, and not a dangerous person. Understanding is needed. Understanding comes from knowledge of the problem and treating people with respect.

If you can not yet accept your friend or colleague living with HIV/AIDS, just try not to hurt him with your condemnation and incomprehension. Try to get as much trustworthy information as possible on this issue and base your decisions not on rumours and conjectures, but on the real facts.