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While being in a committed relationship with someone can be really fulfilling, it’s important to still use condoms every time you have sex, even if you know each others HIV status. Have you and your partner stopped using protection? Here’s how to reintroduce condoms in your relationship.

Have an honest and open conversation with bae about your sex habits

While sex isn’t the only important thing in your relationship, it can have a huge impact on how happy you are with your partner. That’s why it’s so important that you and bae have a chat about your sex life.

Keep in mind that safe sex habits are negotiated between you and your partner. So, when you chat with bae about safe sex, be open to talk about your current sex habits. Discuss consent and sexual reproductive rights. Be free to talk about each other’s plans for the future and how condom-use during sex can help each of you to meet those plans. You can also encourage each other to get tested for STIs and HIV.

Educate yourself about condoms

Condoms don’t get the appreciation they deserve, in my opinion. Did you know that condoms are the only contraceptive method that protects you from sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), while preventing your chances of falling pregnant?

Condoms are also non-hormonal contraceptives, which means that you don’t have to worry about weight gain, mood swings, low energy levels or any other side effects for that matter. They’re also free, so you don’t have to spend any money to get them. If you or bae is allergic to latex condoms – that’s no reason to stop either. You and your partner can go to the nearest health clinic and ask for non-latex condoms.

You can choose to use either male or female condoms. You and your partner can have a conversation about the kind of condom that best suits your lifestyle. Whichever condom you choose, remember that the responsibility to carry condoms doesn’t lie on you only. Both you and your partner are equally responsible for carrying condoms.

Where can you get condoms

You can get male and female condoms from your nearest health facility (clinic, hospital or your doctor). These condoms are free and come in a variety of flavours. You and bae could also buy your condoms at any supermarket, convenience store or pharmacy. Just remember to check for the expiration date and make sure that the condom isn’t damaged.

Keep in mind that a healthy relationship should allow both of you to make responsible decisions about your sex life. Using condoms is really the best way to enjoy a healthy lifestyle without having to worry about the risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection or falling pregnant.

25 November marks the beginning of 16 days of activism against women and child abuse, a 16-day campaign (from 25 November to 10 December) that creates awareness around the violence that women and children face.

Violence against women and children is a huge issue all over the world. Did you know that, worldwide, one in three women face abuse, violence and rape every day? That’s a really shocking statistic chomas.

When it comes to violent crimes and sexual assault, women and children are more at risk. It’s unfortunate chomas, but it’s a fact.

So by creating awareness during these 16 days of activism, people all over the world join in to help take a stand against violence and abuse.

This is not the first campaign, the first one started in 1991 but South Africa adopted it in 1998. A little later, but still good that this campaign has been taking place here. Especially because South Africa actually has one of the highest amount of abuse against women and children – particularly against women.

The effects of violence against women and children

Violence against women and children doesn’t just affect people for a moment, it has long lasting effects. A lot of the times women are not empowered – they are taught to believe that men are the ones who hold the power, get the education and go out to work. A women’s main role is often to look after the family. Women in abusive homes and relationships don’t always know how to get out and sometimes are not able to get out because they rely on a man financially. Violence contributes to disempowering women and children. Children who witness violence or are victims of violence might experience difficulty throughout their lives and may even continue the cycle of violence when they are adults.

Why violence against women and children needs to end.

Did you know that there are some parts of South Africa where women think that violence against women and children is acceptable? Women and children need to know their rights as human beings. Violent people often use their power and authority to take advantage of the position that women and children have in society, and victims often believe that they really do have no power.

Silence around abuse just allows abuse to spread, we all need to speak up about it in order for the violence to end and to stop giving power to abusers.

What can you do?

You can start by wearing the white ribbon during the 16-day campaign. The white ribbon symbolises peace and also means that you don’t support violence and commit to not being violent towards others.

You can also volunteer in groups that support abused women and children.

Report abuse – whether you witness it or are a victim of it, don’t be silent.

Encourage your friends to talk about abuse and to take a stand against it.

Abuse is not normal or acceptable. If your friends joke about it or say that women and children deserve the abuse, don’t encourage their behaviour chomas. Abuse is wrong, in any form.

If you’re a victim of abuse (emotional, physical or sexual abuse), don’t be afraid to seek help.

Stop Gender Based Violence helpline: 0800 150 150

Festive holidays are a great time to unwind and relax. It’s also an opportunity for you to spend time with your friends and bae.

Most people tend to get very excited during the festive season, and end up engaging in risky sexual behaviour. Here are a few tips on how you can have a great holiday and still practise safe sex… 

Get tested with bae

If you don’t know your HIV status yet, it might be a good idea to consider getting tested. Have a chat with your partner about going to get tested together and what it would mean for your relationship. It might be intimidating but getting tested together may help you and your partner get closer. If they refuse, that’s okay, it’s their choice too.

Don’t be discouraged, you can still go to your nearest health clinic and get to know your status so that you can make informed decisions about your sex life 

Use condoms

It’s also very important that you and your partner use condoms at all times,  even if you’ve tested together and know each other’s status. Use condoms even during oral sex, so that you reduce your chances of getting infected with STIs, including HIV . 

Consent is important

Safe sex also means that you can refuse sex when you’re uncomfortable or not ready to have sex. Someone who really cares about you will always ask for your consent and will understand when you say “no” to their advances.

Avoid  excessive use of substances 

Alcohol and drugs can alter your state of mind and reduce your reasoning capacity. This means that you may be less likely to remember to wear a condom during sex, which could lead to STIs, HIV infection and even unwanted pregnancy.

Beware of peer pressure 

While you may find your friends’ opinions about sex and relationships relatable, you don’t have to agree with everything they say. If they’re sexually active, that’s okay – it’s their choice. If you’re not sexually active, it’s also okay and your friends need to respect your decision. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with waiting until you’re ready. Remember, a good friend will never try to pressure you into doing anything you don’t want to do. If you’re not sure what to do when you feel pressured, rather read up more about sex and consent or us for advice.

It’s really not that hard to practise safe sex. In fact you should do these things throughout the year anyway! I’ve only mentioned a few things that you can do but it’s always a good idea for you to read up and educate yourself about sex and other related issues. Remember to use condoms every single time ! And if you aren’t ready to have sex, there’s nothing to be ashamed of – your body, your choice! 

Remember if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact , send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (+2687624506).

PEP and PrEP are both HIV preventative methods that involved taking HIV mediation to reduce your chances of getting infected with HIV.  However, the two can often get confused, so here’s a break down of their differences.

What does it mean?

PEP means Post-Exposure Prophylaxis and PrEP means Pre-exposure prophylaxis. 

When can it be taken? 

PEP is an emergency treatment that is taken after possible exposure to HIV. Because it is not for long-term use, it has to be taken within 72 hours and it is taken for 4 weeks.

PrEP can be taken for a long period and it is meant to be taken every day before you are exposed to HIV. It can be taken with or without food and it’s recommended that you take it around the same time daily. If it is taken correctly, it will be effective. 

Who is it for?

PEP is for people who don’t have HIV but may have been exposed to it. For example, it is given to people who may be exposed during sex, sharing sharp objects like needles, or during a sexual assault. 

PrEP is also for people who don’t have HIV but they might be at risk of getting infected. For example, people whose partners may be living with HIV, having sex with someone whose HIV status is unknown, or by sharing sharp objects like needles.

How do you get it?

If you have to get a prescription for PEP, you have to go to your local healthcare provider within 72 hours (3 days) of the potential exposure. 

Because PrEP is not yet available everywhere, you’d have to ask your doctor or healthcare provider if they can prescribe it for you. If they can’t, then you should ask them to recommend the nearest healthcare centre that might have it in your area. 

I know it may not be easy to ask your healthcare provider about PEP or PrEP but you don’t have to be shy about it. If you feel that you might be at risk of getting exposed to HIV, then you should be brave and ask to be put onto these medications because they can reduce your chances of being infected with HIV.

Remember, if you or a friend need advice or help, you can write to us in the comment section below, send us a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (+26876624506). 

Post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP, is the process of taking antiretroviral medication (ART) as soon as possible after potential exposure, in order to prevent the possibility of being infected with HIV. It is an emergency treatment for HIV and it’s a short course of antiretroviral medication that can stop HIV infection if they are taken properly.

How do I take PEP?

It is recommended that you take PEP within 72 hours of a possible infection because it is most effective at preventing HIV infection. Unfortunately, you cannot take PEP after 72 hours of possible exposure, so every hour counts.  When you are on PEP, you will be advised to take the medication at the same time every day for 4 weeks.

You can’t take PEP if you’re already living with HIV or if you want to prevent an unwanted pregnancy or other STIs.

When should I test for HIV after PEP?

Taking PEP in order to prevent HIV exposure doesn’t mean that you are in the clear. It’s important to get tested after using PEP to make sure the treatment was successful. Get tested 3 months after potential exposure, and then again after 6 months.

Your healthcare provider might also test for STIs and pregnancy (if you’re a woman) so you can take the morning after pill – so it’s important to ask about these tests so you can get the necessary help.

Who can take PEP?

PEP is mostly recommended for victims of sexual assault, possible exposure at work (occupational exposure) or if you have shared a needle or been exposed to sharp object with blood on it. Remember, it has to be taken within 72 hours.

Where can I get PEP?

Because PEP is a drug that is meant to prevent possible exposure to HIV, it is not easily available everywhere. It is mostly available at your nearest clinic, from your doctor or any healthcare provider. If you’re in a situation where you need PEP – like when the clinic is closed on a weekend, then you can go to your nearest hospital to get it.

Being aware of different ways to prevent being exposed to HIV is very important. Don’t be shy to ask about PEP or any other HIV-related information because knowledge is power. 

Remember, if you or a friend need advice or help, you can write to us in the comment section below, send us a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (+26876624506). 

When HIV was first discovered, it was viewed with a lot of fear and seen as a deadly disease, even in the medical field . Thankfully, with all the advancement in research and medication, the virus can be prevented and managed better. PrEP is HIV prevention treatment. Here’s more on it: 

What is it?  

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a course of HIV medication that is taken by HIV-negative people to reduce their likelihood of getting infected with HIV. It comes in the form of a pill that is a combination of 300mg of tenofovir and 200mg emtricitabine.

How does it work?

If you’re taking PrEP as instructed and you happen to get exposed to HIV, then there will be high levels of the medication in your body that will prevent you from getting HIV. You have to take the pill once a day with or without food and it’s recommended that you take it around the same time daily. If you miss the pill, all you have to do is take it immediately but remember, you can’t take more than one at the same time. It is important to remember that PrEP does not cure HIV.

Is it effective?

Yes. PrEP is highly effective in reducing your chances of getting infected with HIV if it is taken correctly. Even though PrEP helps prevent the likelihood of an HIV infection, it doesn’t mean that you have to stop using condoms because it will not prevent an unwanted pregnancy or other STIs. To prevent STIs, remember to always use a condom. It is also advisable that you have an HIV test every 3 months.

What are the side effects?

The most common side effects that you can get from PrEP are: 

• Tiredness
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Nausea/ vomiting
• Change in appetite
• Sleeping problems
• Depression
• Rash

But most of these side effects go away after a few weeks when your body gets used to the medication. If they don’t, then it is highly recommended that you go see your healthcare provider for assistance.

Who can use PrEP?

Even though PrEP is meant for HIV negative people, it is usually recommended for people who are more at risk of getting infected with HIV. Here are a few examples:

• If you’re in a sexual relationship with a partner who is living with HIV
• Men who have sex with men – and hardly use condoms
• You are not using condoms with your partner and you don’t know their status (Big NO Choma)
• You live a high-risk lifestyle like sharing injecting objects for drugs or you have multiple sex partners

Where can I get PrEP?

You can get PrEP at your local healthcare provider or you can ask your doctor about where you can get it.

As you can see Igniter, it is important that you keep yourself educated about the different ways that you can prevent getting infected with HIV so that you can contribute towards an HIV-free generation. Don’t forget to share this article with your loved ones so they can also spread awareness about PrEP.

In the meantime, if you or a friend need advice or help, you can always reach out in the comment section, send me a Facebook Message, an Instagram DM, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (+268 76624506).