New year tips to get your partner tested at AHF Jamaica
As we step into the New Year, it’s the perfect time for meaningful goals. Getting tested for HIV and encouraging your partner to do the same is LOVE. AHF Jamaica stands by you with some practical tips on how to handle this sensitive topic. 1) Give the gift of HIV Testing If you tested positive for HIV, you might understand that knowing your HIV status is a crucial step towards maintaining your health and well-being. Early detection will provide both an opportunity for timely treatment and management. It’s about taking control of your health and making informed decisions that will benefit both you and your partner. 2) Choose the Right Moment Timing is everything when it comes to discussing sensitive issues. Choose a calm, private moment where you both feel relaxed and can have an open conversation without interruptions. This could be over a quiet dinner at home or during a relaxed Sunday afternoon. The key is to ensure that the setting is conducive to an honest and supportive dialogue about any topic. 3) Be Honest and Open Share your personal experiences and concerns, if you feel ready for it. Emphasize the importance of both your health and your partner’s. You might say something like, “I care about us and want to make sure we both stay healthy. Getting tested can help us know where we stand and take any necessary steps.” If you are not ready to be open about your own HIV status it is OK to wait before disclosure. You can still be honest and open while offering the gift of testing to your partner. 4) Provide Information Lack of information can sometimes be a barrier to go for HIV testing. Explain the testing process to your partner, highlighting how quick and straightforward it can be. Mention that AHF Jamaica offers confidential and free testing at their Kingston Medical Center. Remember that testing can be a routine and responsible step for anyone sexually active. Knowing the facts can alleviate some of the anxiety associated with testing. 5) Offer Support Reassure your partner that you’ll be there every step of the way. If applicable, suggest that you both go for testing together. This can make the experience less intimidating and foster a sense of mutual support. It shows that you’re in this together and that taking care of your health is a shared responsibility. 6) Address Concerns Be prepared to listen to your partner’s fears or reservations and address them calmly. Many people have misconceptions or fears about HIV testing. Reassuring your partner that knowing their status is a positive and empowering step can help alleviate some of these concerns. Emphasize that getting tested is about taking control of one’s health and future. 7) Highlight the benefits Focus on the benefits of getting tested. Knowing your status provides peace of mind and allows for early detection and treatment if necessary. It also enables you both to make informed decisions about your health and your relationship. Let your partner know that understanding your status is a step towards a healthier and happier future together. Remind at all times that with treatment, HIV is untransmittable. 8) Utilize resources Provide your partner with resources or contact information for local clinics or organizations that offer testing and support. In Kingston, one such resource is AHF Jamaica (AIDS Healthcare Foundation). They provide comprehensive services, including HIV testing, education, and support for those living with HIV. Knowing that there is a supportive and professional organization ready to help can make the decision to get tested easier. 9) Be patient Understand that this conversation might be challenging for your partner. Give them time to process the information and make their decision. Patience and understanding are crucial in ensuring that your partner feels supported and not pressured. AHF Jamaica: Yuh Partner in Health AHF Jamaica is dedicated to providing quality healthcare services and support for individuals living with HIV. Their programs are designed to empower individuals, improve health outcomes, and enhance the quality of life. They offer free and confidential HIV testing, counseling, and ongoing support to ensure you have the resources you need to live well with HIV. If you’re looking to get tested or need support, reaching out to AHF Jamaica can be a great first step. If you have any questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to AHF Jamaica. They are ready to support you on your journey to a healthier, happier life.
More on World Aids Day: Can we end Aids-related deaths?
43 years passed since the world first heard about AIDS, and the advances have been gigantic since the first World AIDS Day. Can we put an end to the deaths now?
World AIDS Day
This December 1, World AIDS Day, we are reminded of the strides made and the challenges that remain in the fight against AIDS.
Treatment – Let’s Talk
Throughout my life, the saying “prevention is better than cure” echoed in my ears, courtesy of my grandmother. However, her words always left me pondering the deeper meaning. Fast forward 25 years, and I find myself working at one of Jamaica’s largest Non-Governmental Organisations, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation Jamaica, which offers free care and treatment for HIV and other STIs. Working here has illuminated the profound meaning and impact of treatment on individuals, communities, and society as a whole. Treatment Vs. Prevention Is prevention better than cure, as my grandmother used to say? Well, let me be the first to say, “Granny, you were right, but let’s not judge people.” It’s a matter of where you are on the spectrum of prevention and treatment. Whether you consistently use preventative methods for safe sex or engage in risky behaviors with multiple partners, both prevention and treatment have their place. Consider where you, yes you stand – are you closer to the prevention side, using protection all the time, or do you find yourself in need of consistent treatment? In the realm of HIV and STI treatment, remarkable advancements have been achieved. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has revolutionized the lives of countless individuals, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives by taking “1 pill a day” just like vitamins despite their diagnoses. I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformation of lives from despair to hope as patients regain their health and confidence. Meet Sarah, nope not that Sarah, but a remarkable woman who was diagnosed with HIV in her early twenties. Thanks to accessible treatment and support from organisations like the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, she now stands as an inspiration to others. Her journey reflects the triumph of treatment, as she not only manages her condition but also thrives in her career and personal life. Treatment is for everyone who needs it Making treatment available and accessible to all is paramount. Many underserved communities bear the brunt of these infections, and organisations like ours play a crucial role in reaching those in need. The AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s wellness centers, located throughout the Caribbean, in countries like Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and yours truly Jamaica, The AIDS Healthcare Foundation ensure that anyone can access care, regardless of their ability to pay. By providing comprehensive care, it helps people to regain control over their health, thereby erasing the stigma surrounding HIV and other STIs. Did I mention we do all this for free? Yes, it is FREE. How it Affects you? As we reflect on the saying “prevention is better than cure,” let us remember that both prevention and treatment are vital in the fight against HIV and STIs. Let’s support healthcare initiatives by: These are some small but crucial steps we all can take. Together, we can empower lives, transform communities, and move closer to a world where HIV and STIs are no longer barriers to a fulfilling life. For more information about Treatment for STIs and HIV be sure to slide in our DMs, or feel free to give us a call we are always up and ready to answer any questions because as you know AHF Jamaica is here for you. Reach out: @ahfjamaicaCall us: 1876-313-3340
Ending the Silence: A Call to Action Against Violence on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
As we commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Jamaica, a dedicated HIV healthcare organization, stands firm in our commitment to ending violence and advocating for the rights and well-being of women worldwide.
Empowering Jamaica’s Future: International Day of the Girl Child
Introduction Every year on October 11th, Jamaica joins the global community in celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empowering and uplifting girls in Jamaica and around the world. It’s an occasion to recognize their potential, promote gender equality, and address the unique challenges they face. In Jamaica, this day takes on special significance as the nation strives to provide equal opportunities for all its citizens, regardless of gender. The Significance of International Day of the Girl Child The International Day of the Girl Child was established by the United Nations in 2011, with the aim of promoting girls’ rights and addressing the discrimination and disadvantages they often face. This day serves as an opportunity to advocate for gender equality, highlight the importance of education, and address issues such as child marriage, gender-based violence, and unequal access to healthcare and opportunities. Empowering Jamaican Girls In Jamaica, the celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child is an essential part of the broader efforts to empower girls and women across the nation. Jamaica has made significant strides in promoting gender equality and providing opportunities for girls to thrive. Challenges and Progress While Jamaica has made significant progress in empowering its girls, challenges still exist. Gender-based violence, early pregnancies, and limited access to healthcare in some rural areas remain obstacles to be addressed. Nevertheless, International Day of the Girl Child serves as a reminder that progress is possible and that the nation is committed to ensuring a brighter future for its girls. Conclusion The International Day of the Girl Child is a moment for reflection, celebration, and action. In Jamaica, it is a day to reaffirm the nation’s commitment to empowering girls, ensuring their rights, and providing opportunities for them to reach their full potential. By continuing to address the challenges they face and promoting gender equality, Jamaica is shaping a brighter future for its girls and for the entire nation. It is a day to celebrate the strength, resilience, and boundless potential of Jamaica’s girl children as they become the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow.
My Life, My Period!
Get ready to dive into a topic that we are too shy to talk about yep! Period! “The Aunty from country come” We’re breaking the silence and bringing the spotlight to this essential aspect of women’s lives in Jamaica. From historical taboos to myths that need debunking, let’s uncover the truth and make menstrual hygiene a subject worth talking about! But first, what is Menstrual Hygiene? Menstrual hygiene is all about taking care of your period in a safe and healthy way. It involves using the right products, like pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, and keeping clean. Good menstrual hygiene means changing your products regularly, cleaning your genital area with mild soap, and properly disposing of used items. Don’t forget to wash your hands too! By practicing good menstrual hygiene, you’ll feel confident and comfortable during your period. So, embrace your flow, stay fresh, and take care of yourself. Period power! Taboos and Myths Flushing Away the Old Beliefs! Picture this: back in the 1770s, women weren’t even allowed in the same room as their own husbands during their period. Talk about extreme segregation! Fast forward to the present day, and some people are still holding onto these archaic beliefs. Well, it’s high time we throw those beliefs in a box and send them packing to the Pacific Ocean! Let’s bid adieu to ridiculous myths like “no cooking during periods” or “no physical activities allowed.” We’re smashing these taboos and rallying for support during women’s most vulnerable times. Access It’s Time to Make Waves! Let’s normalize period conversations by addressing a crucial issue – access to affordable and accessible sanitary supplies. Kudos to the Jamaican government for exempting pads from taxes, but we can’t stop there! Why not extend the exemption to all menstrual supplies, including pain relief tablets? And hey, if condoms are easily accessible, why not make sanitary pads easily accessible as well across the island? That’s a game-changing move we’d love to see! Period Poverty and Education Breaking the Chains! Poverty is already a crime in itself, but can you imagine being so poor that you can’t even afford a single pad? It’s a harsh reality faced by many girls in Jamaica and maybe even in your very own community. Lack of education only makes matters worse, leaving women without the support they desperately need. Let’s make some noise, plastering posters and educational materials everywhere to spark conversations and foster understanding. And let’s not forget about menstrual leave! It’s about time our government recognized the importance of granting leave for this natural process. My Life, My Period Get in on the Action! Enough with the secrecy and shame! Let’s embrace the bloody conversation and build a strong support system for women during their periods. If you or your organization needs pads, we’ve got your back! Reach out to us, and we’ll gladly provide the supplies you need. We’re here to educate you about periods, no holds barred! So, mark your calendars for May 28th, Menstrual Hygiene Day, and let’s make a real difference by donating pads and spreading awareness! It’s time to turn up the volume on menstrual hygiene in Jamaica! Break free from the boring and embrace the bold. Together, we can eliminate the stigma, provide support, and ensure every woman has a dignified period experience. So, don’t hesitate – take action, donate pads, and let’s make menstrual hygiene a topic that demands attention and respect. Together, we’re making waves, one period at a time! Support System We can help, slide in our Dm’s and let us know what you need, we will be more than happy to assist with supplies or if you want to just have a pep talk about menstrual issues. Also, see below we have listed some more places where you can go for help. Her flow Girls Do Good Woman’s Touch
Women’s Power in Negotiating Condom Use: Safer is Sexier
As a man who has been with my fair share of Jamaican women, I can confidently say that there is power in the vagina, or as we say in Jamaica, the “pum pum.” Women have been blessed with one of the most powerful negotiating tools, and it makes perfect sense to use it to bargain for safer sex practices, including condom use. This blog aims to provide insights on how women can safely negotiate condom use to empower themselves and make safer sex a sexy choice. Condom Use In Jamaica, women are often categorized as a vulnerable population, meaning they may not have the ability to assert their preferences and make informed decisions, especially when it comes to safe sex practices. Unfortunately, the percentage of condom use in Jamaica is still low, often determined by the preference of men who may not want to use them. This gives men the power to choose whether or not to use condoms, putting women at risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy. However, this narrative can be changed, and the power can be shifted from the penis to the vagina. Women can and should take charge of their sexual health by using their pum pum power to negotiate for condom use. How to Use the Power Jamaican women are often regarded as the sexiest in the world, but what is missing is the art of negotiating for safer sex practices. Women need to know that their pum pum can be a powerful tool to negotiate condom use. By using their pum pum power, women can demand condom use in any sexual encounter, whether it’s a long-term relationship, casual relationship, or a fling. Negotiating can be challenging, but when you put something on the table and negotiate with it, you have the power to shape the terms and conditions in your favor. Say no to unprotected sex, and use your pum pum power to make condom use a sexy and empowering choice. Never forget that women have the power to negotiate condom use and make safer sex a sexy choice. By using their pum pum power, women can demand condom use and take charge of their sexual health. Remember, safer is sexier, and there is nothing more empowering than making informed decisions about your body and health. How to Get the Power All women have the power but some might have problems channeling the power, and some might need help to get it out and get the power to the right place, but I say to you don’t worry I have put a list of places that you can get help channeling that power (Empowered) see the list below and if all fail, just make sure you are with the right partner that respect, cherish and love you enough to put your sexual health first. Eve for Life www.eveforlife.org 1 (876) 831-8559 JASL www.jasforlife.org (876) 925-0021-2 AHF Jamaica www.ahfmedicalcentre.org.jm 876-313-3340
MonkeyPox Vs. Herpes (Or any other STI Symptoms)
First, let’s begin by saying that we are tired of all these new infections, region-wide, nationwide, and oh especially Island-wide. Our little ‘piece of rock’ that sits in the Caribbean Sea that we call Jamaica cannot take any more pandemics or epidemics, especially this new one called Monkeypox. We just want to live and live easy the Jamaican style- “No problem, man!”. “Mek Wi Reason bout Monkeypox” So Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the Monkeypox virus. The monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as the variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox. (www.CDC.gov) If infected with Monkeypox, sadly your skin will have a breakout of lesions, bumps, and sores, more over you will also start to have flu-like symptoms or symptoms associated with having the fever or a common cold. The way of transmission of Monkeypox is mostly by “physical touch”. Oh YES! That does include sex. So, Although Monkeypox is not an STI it can be passed on sexually. Herpes Well, by now we know that herpes is a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) that is passed on by having unprotected sex, the signs of genital herpes can be sores, rashes, or lesions mostly on or around the genitals. Herpes cannot be cured and will have flare-ups time after time due to your body and or your environment. You can go to the nearest health center or come visit us at 183 Hagley Park Road if you think you are infected with Herpes or any other STI. Not to Confuse the two So now we know what is Monkeypox and we now know what is Herpes, so let’s not confuse the two. Monkeypox although can be transmitted sexually is not an STI. If infected with Monkeypox, you may develop rashes, sores, and lesions all over the body. A Herpes infection may cause rashes, sores, or lesions that may appear around your genital area. If you are infected with Monkeypox you have to be quarantined away from everyone, whilst if you are infected with Herpes you do not have to be quarantined nor do you have to stay away from your loved ones. Wrap it up! Mask it up! The truth is prevention is always better than cure. so to prevent transmission of the Monkeypox Virus, by wearing a condom during sex, yes during sex. Stay 6ft away from people (physical distance social), and wear a mask and or proper PPEs if you have to. While on the other hand if you are infected with Herpes, to limit that transmission use a condom every time or stick to one faith uninfected partner.
