In most rural areas in South Africa, traditional healers are the preferred and most accessible healthcare providers. A clear distinction needs to be made between the words ‘cure’ and ‘treat’. While a traditional healer may assist in strengthening your immune…
Acute Infection Stage This is the period shortly after someone has been infected with HIV. During this stage the virus is highly concentrated in your body, so you are at higher risk of transmitting HIV to others. Within 2-4 weeks…
What is PrEP? Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an HIV prevention strategy where HIV negative people take medications daily to prevent them from becoming positive if they are exposed to the virus. PrEP has been shown to significantly reduce the risk…
Anal sex is common among both men and women. For many people the anus and surrounding areas are very sensitive and sexually arousing. Some people can experience orgasm from anal penetration.
The anus may be stimulated or penetrated with a finger, penis, tongue or sex toy. However, since the anus does not lubricate itself when stimulated (like a vagina does) any form of anal penetration requires lubrication. Never insert an object with sharp edges or jagged points into the anus which could cause small cuts or tears. Rather use commercially available toys such as a dildo. Importantly, make sure that any toys you use for anal penetration have a ‘base’ or a ‘foot’ to prevent the toy slipping in too deep and making withdrawl difficult. Start small. Never try to insert an object that causes discomfort or pain. Never insert any glass object into your anus. Wash all sex toys thoroughly with dishwashing liquid and warm water.
When someone becomes HIV positive, he has been infected by a particular virus. It does not mean that he is sick. The HI virus will harm his immune system (which protects him against germs) very slowly over many years. Many…
Testicular cancer refers to cancer (a growth, lump) in or on your testicles (balls). It is the most common form of cancer among young men aged 15 to 40. Many forms of cancer are very dangerous and even terminal but…
The prostate is a gland the size of a walnut that sits below your bladder and surrounds your urethra (pee tube). It can be felt by inserting a finger into your rectum. The gland produces most of the fluid in…
Warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) that affects the skin and mucous membranes. There are many strains of this virus, most of which are harmless. Some cause harmless warts (on the hands or feet). Warts can also occur on your penis, or around or inside your anus. There are more than 40 types of HPV that can be passed on through sex.
