Education, Comfort, Free HIV Prevention Products For Men And Women Mean Safety For You And Your Loved Ones

Submitted by tomrue on

OPINION
By Tom Rue

It has long been known in the healthcare and scientific communities that the virus called human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) causes a disease syndrome in humans the primary symptom of which is the acquisition of a deficient immune system. Hence the name, acquired human immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

My first experience working with people suffering from AIDS, from anxiety about testing positive for HIV, or the so-called "worried well", was in the early 1980s. Since then, it has never stopped.

At first, it was unknown how HIV was passed from person to person. Fear escalated as AIDS reached the level of a public health crisis. This led to a variety of special laws and practices. Time has proven some of these actions were wise and and well thought-out, while others may have been based on prejudice, stigma, and lack of knowledge.

Education about pathogens carried by blood and other body fluids has become common since the 80s, evolving beyond the earliest "safer sex" education campaign. Once such things were discussed in whispers.

In recent years, cartoons of smile-faced condoms have appeared. Open discussion with professionals or parents among post-pubescent males and females, through adulthood, aimed at making them user friendly, is a positive step.

A counseling office is a place where you can make anything a topic for open discussion. As a public health measure, funded by the New York State Department of Health, AIDS Institute, a variety of free products for men and women are available at the Choices Counseling office.

They are intentionally placed in an open, public place, free for the taking, for use (not for resale) by any New York State resident.

On a shelf display you may find any or all of the following FDA approved, "doctor recommended" intimate products (link to the manufacturer for detailed instructions with illustrations and ingredients):

If, during an office visit, you do not see these products out in plain sight, whatever the reason for your visit, let go of any self-consciousness and please ask. Or make requests! If this distribution program is successful, other products may be added.

These items are provided at no cost to you. Consider them a gift from the people of the State of New York, for your personal safety and protection of those you love.

Help yourself, or ask if you prefer. Take what you need and use them. Ask any questions you want, or pick some up without worry or comment before or after discussing whatever related or unrelated concerns you came in with.

If you have a physical health question that is beyond my expertise as a mental health counselor, I guarantee that I will either get you an answer before your next visit or refer you to a professional who can assist. In this office, any question that you have - or any topic on your mind - is appropriate and welcome.

Keep in mind these products are effective regardless of orientation or gender. For example, 'female' condoms can also be used by any receptive partner during anal sex. Dental dams can be used with partners of either gender, either vaginally or anally (just be sure no to share!). Latex cots are hygienic and protective against body fluids during anal or vaginal penetration with the fingers.

Human condom wearing a latex finger cot

REMEMBER TO:
  1. Use sober, well-informed judgment in all major life choices.
  2. Engage in consensual behaviors with those who share your full mental capacity for informed decisions (who understand consequences) about their bodies, minds, and spirits.
  3. Minimize health risks for yourself and your partner(s).
  4. Speak openly with supportive, experienced people you trust.
  5. Communicate, don't isolate. Share your self with your partner.
  6. If you're ready to have sex, you are ready to talk about it.

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