| Question | Answer |
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| Contraceptives - Condoms |
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| Are specialty (i.e., flavored or glow in the dark) condoms less effective? |
Glow-in-the-dark and other "novelty" condoms are funny gifts, but as is normally indicated on the box or package in which they are sold, (if the package says "For Novelty or Entertainment Purposes Only"), they are not recommended for vaginal, anal, or oral sex, nor do they provide protection against STIs. |
| How do you know if you have a latex allergy? |
Since the symptoms of a latex allergy (skin rash, itching, swelling) can also resemble the symptoms of an allergic reaction to either spermicide or nonoxynol-9 or symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection, the best thing to do is to visit a doctor to find out for sure. For more information, contact Appointments at Student Health Services by calling 292-4321. |
| How effective are condoms? |
For more information on condoms and other contraceptives, check out our About Contraceptives page. With typical use of a male condom, about 10 in 100 women will become pregnant. In terms of reducing the risk of contracting a STIs, condoms do not protect/reduce your risk against all STIs as mentioned in a previous question. |
| If you're in a committed relationship, how can you ask your partner to wear a condom without offending him? |
Talking about condoms can be difficult, and every situation will be different. Open communication is essential for the health and success of any intimate relationship. Ideally, you will discuss safer sex with your partner before initiating sexual activity. If that's not the case, though, make sure you pick an appropriate time to initiate this discussion. A time when you're together and both open and receptive to such a discussion (i.e., in a good mood or not stressed). Tell your partner openly and honestly how you feel and ask him/her to do the same with you, including how you feel about each other, as well as how you feel about safer sex and the prospect of monogamy. Talk to one another about your past sexual histories. Discuss the option of getting tested for STDs, including HIV, together. All of these things can make your relationship stronger and hopefully, open communication with your partner will lessen the fear of offending him/her when you want to talk about safer sex. However, if you are still having trouble or fear that your partner may become violent, please seek the help of a counselor or other health professional for assistance. (Call OSU Counseling & Consultation Services at 292-5766.) |
| Is one brand of condom more effective than another? |
In general, the answer is no. However, keep in mind that latex condoms provide protection against STIs, whereas polyurethane and lambskin condoms only protect against pregnancy. In 1999, Consumer Reports tested 30 models of condoms, and found that there were far fewer failures among the condoms tested than in previous years. |
| Is using a condom the male or female's responsibility? |
This is an interesting question, but we would definitely recommend that the use of a condom or other protective barrier during sexual activity is the responsibility of BOTH partners. Regardless of who actually wears the condom (there are female condoms, too), communication about sexual activity as well as sexual history should ideally occur well before the initiation of any sexual act. There are many variables to discuss depending upon the relationship, but both partners should make their needs, desires, opinions, and decisions known to the other person before engaging in sexual activity. |
| What brands of condoms are available at the Student Wellness Center? |
Brands change over time due to cost and availability, so for the most updated information, call the Student Wellness Center at 292-4527, and to learn more about the Condom Club, visit the Condom Club page. |
| What do you mean by condom negotiation? |
Condom negotiation, as we define it, means the process in which sexual partners discuss and reach an agreement about condom usage. It is important to discuss safer sex with your partner before you engage in sexual activity with him/her. |
| Contraceptives - General Information |
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| How do dental dams work? |
Dental dams are square pieces of latex (offered free to members of the Condom Club) that come in all different colors and flavors and act as a barrier between the mouth and the vagina or anus during oral-to-vaginal or oral-to-anal sex. Dental dams are an important tool for those practicing safer sex. |
| Is pulling out considered safe? |
"Pulling out", or having the male partner "pull out" his penis before ejaculation, is not considered safe sex. First, prior to ejaculation, there is pre-ejaculate fluid that does contain both sperm and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, if the male is infected. Secondly, there are many STIs that do not require ejaculation to occur in order for the male to infect his partner. Not only does "pulling out" offer absolutely no protection against STIs, but it is not an effective method of pregnancy prevention, either, if that is a goal. Again, the pre-ejaculate fluid does contain sperm. Finally, there is the issue of self-control. In the heat of the moment, how certain are you that he will be able to "pull out" in time? To learn more about different methods of safer sex, check out the About Contraceptives page. |
| Is there any way to have safer sex in a hot tub? |
Having sex in a hot tub can make the possibility of safer sex very difficult for many reasons, the most of common of which being that the water may cause the condom to slip off. Also, to put to rest the myth: no, the heat and chemicals in a pool or hot tub do not kill sperm or STIs. So, having unprotected sex in a hot tub or swimming pool is no safer than having unprotected sex in your bed; you are still putting yourself at risk for STIs and an unplanned pregnancy. |
| What contraceptive works best? |
There are a lot of things to consider when thinking about which contraceptive is right for you, including your personal beliefs and desires, product effectiveness, safety, cost, and benefits. Talk to your partner and contact your doctor to discuss which contraceptive is right for you. (To make an appointment at the Wilce Student Health Center, call 292-4321) To learn more about various contraceptives and their effectiveness, visit our About Contraceptives page. |
| Contraceptives - Pregnancy/Birth Control |
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| Are birth control pills available at low cost? How much? |
For information on prescriptions and pricing, call the OSU Pharmacy at 292-0125. Planned Parenthood also offers low-cost birth control pills, but you must have your pap smear done there in order to obtain a prescription. Call the Planned Parenthood of Central Ohio's North/Campus Health Center location at 222-3604. |
| Can you become pregnant through oral sex? |
It is physically impossible for a woman to become pregnant by swallowing ejaculate during oral sex. Anything that is swallowed goes through the digestive system, not one's reproductive organs. Keep in mind, though, that a woman is at risk for contracting STIs by giving unprotected oral sex. It is recommended the use of flavored latex condoms or dental dams are used correctly and consitently during oral sex. |
| How effective is birth control? Side effects? |
To learn all about different contraceptives and their effectiveness, visit our About Contraceptives page. |
| General Alcohol Education F.A.Q.s |
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| Can a problem drinker simply cut down? |
It depends. If that person has alcoholism, the answer is no. Alcoholics who try to cut down on drinking rarely succeed. Abstaining is usually the best course for recovery for alcoholics. People who have experienced problems as a result of their drinking but are not dependent on alcohol may be able to reduce or eliminate problems by limit their drinking. If a person finds they can’t stay within the limits they set for themselves, it may be a sign that they need to stop drinking.
Source: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
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| Do you have to be an alcoholic to experience problems? |
No. Alcoholism is only one type of alcohol-related problem. Alcohol abuse can be just as harmful. A person can abuse alcohol without being an alcoholic. Someone who abuses alcohol drinks too much and/or too often and experiences problems as a result of drinking. Problems linked to alcohol abuse include not being able to meet work, school or family responsibilities, alcohol-related arrests and injuries, and social or interpersonal difficulties.
Source: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
|
| Does alcohol affect women differently? |
Women will be more impaired than men after drinking the same amount of alcohol. This is true even when differences in body weight are taken into account. There are several reasons for this. Women’s bodies have less water than men’s. Because alcohol mixes with body water, a given amount of alcohol becomes more highly concentrated in a woman’s body than in a man’s body. Women also have less of an enzyme, alcohol dehydrogenase, which breaks down alcohol in the stomach. Because of this, when a woman consumes alcohol, less is broken down in the stomach and more is absorbed intact into the blood stream.
In addition, chronic alcohol abuse takes a heavier physical toll on women than on men. Alcohol dependence and related medical problems, such as brain, heart, and liver damage, progress more rapidly in women than in men.
Source: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
|
| Does having a tolerance makes me a safer drinker? |
Nope. Research tells us that a person with a tolerance may feel less impaired at a given BAC, but they are not actually less impaired. For example, people who report a high tolerance to alcohol perform no better then individuals with a low tolerance to alcohol on tests of motor functioning at given BAC level. In addition, although a person with a high tolerance does not feel as many effects at a given BAC, the same amount of alcohol is reaching their organs and doing damage to the body. Finally, increasing tolerance can put people at risk for future alcohol dependence. |
| How can a person get help for an alcohol-related problem? |
Any student at OSU can participate in the BASICS program at the Student Wellness Center to get a free and confidential assessment and receive personal feedback on their drinking. For information, see the BASICS page on this site. Students can also go to Counseling & Consultation Services (CCS) for alcohol-related assessment, consultation, and/or counseling. For more information, visit the CCS Web site at www.ccs.ohio-state.edu.
There are also other local and national resources that can help. See the alcohol resources listings on the Student Wellness Center Web site or call the National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Referral Routing Service at (800) 662-HELP for information on resources.
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| How can I know what my blood alcohol concentration (BAC) when drinking? |
A blood alcohol calculator is available at www.mystduentbody.com. To enter this site use the code word BUCKEYES. The calculator calculates BACs for women and men or different weights and provides information about the effects that a person experiences at different BAC levels. |
| Is alcohol good for your heart? |
Studies have shown that moderate drinkers – women who have one or less drinks per day men who have two or fewer drinks per day – are less likely to die from heart disease than both people who do not drink any alcohol or people who drink more. Research, however, has not shown that young adults gain any health benefits from drinking alcohol. If you are a non-drinker, you should not start drinking solely to benefit your heart, as the risks of consuming alcohol may outweigh the benefits. You can guard against heart disease by exercising regularly and eating foods low in fat.
Source: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
|
| Pretty much all college students drink alcohol – right? |
Yes and no. While the majority of OSU student do drink sometimes, about 20% don’t drink alcohol at all. Of those who do consume alcohol, most drink once a week or less often and have somewhere between 1 and 6 drinks per week. Only a minority of OSU students drink more frequently or in greater quantities. To learn more see the Social Norms page on this site. |
| What are some strategies that can be used to moderate one’s drinking? |
The first step is to decide what you don’t like or want to avoid when drinking and to set specific drinking limits based on this. You can also use the BAC calculator at MyStudentBody.com and the information in the answer to the question “What is a safe drinking limit?” below to help you decide on your limits. What is your upper limit for the number of standard drinks you want to consume per occasion? What is your upper limit for the number of standard drinks you want to consume per week? (A standard drink = one 12 ounce beer, one 5 ounce glass of wine, or a 1.5 ounce shot of 80-proof liquor.)
Next, chose a few strategies for staying within the limits you set. Some strategies that have worked for others include:
Switching to drinks that contain less alcohol.
Slowing down your pace of drinking.
Spacing your drinks farther apart.
Avoiding high-proof liquors and shots.
Measuring the amount of liquor you use in mixed drinks.
Alternating drinking nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages.
Eating before and while you are drinking.
Avoiding drinking games.
Identifying plausible reasons not to drink beyond a certain point.
Being prepared to refuse drinks.
Research alternative activities to do instead of drinking.
Finally, make sure to count the number of standard drinks you consume. Then observe your behavior – this is like standing outside yourself and watching how you are acting when you are drinking. Most people are surprised by what they learn when they actually count how many drinks they have then observe themselves. They often find that they get what they want out of drinking with fewer drinks than they thought they needed.
Source: Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students (BASICS): A Harm Reduction Approach by Linda A. Dimeff, John S. Baer, Daniel R. Kivlahan, and G. Alan Marlatt. Copyright 1999 by The Guilford Press.
|
| What is a safe level of drinking? |
Women who drink more than 3 drinks per occasion and men who drink more than 4 drinks per occasion are at high-risk for experiencing short-term alcohol-related problems such as experiencing a hangover, getting nauseous or vomiting, doing something they later regret, missing class, getting into an argument or fight, being hurt or injured, damaging property, deciding to drive under the influence, get in trouble with the authorities, and being taken advantage or sexually. Women who drink more than 7 drinks per week and men who drink more than 14 drinks per week are at high-risk of developing long-term alcohol-related problems, including dependence.
Up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women and older people – causes few, if any, problems for most adults. (One drink equals 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5. ounces of 80-proof hard liquor.) Certain people should not drink at all, however. They include women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, people who plan to drive or engage in other activities that require alertness and skill, people taking over-the-counter or prescriptions medicines, people with medical conditions made worse by drinking, recovering alcoholics, and people younger than 21. (See “Why should I wait until I’m 21 to drink?” for more information.)
Source: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
|
| What is alcoholism? |
Alcoholism, also known as alcohol dependence, is a disease that is diagnosed when a person has three or more of the following signs and symptoms:
- Marked tolerance
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Regularly drinking more or over a longer period than was intended
- Being unable to cut down or control drinking
- Spending a great deal of time obtaining alcohol
- Giving up or reducing important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of alcohol use
- Continuing to drink despite knowing that persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problems are caused or exacerbated by drinking
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| Where can I learn more about alcohol? |
www.MyStudentBody.com is one good information source. To enter this site, use the school code BUCKEYES. For other resources, see the alcohol resources list on this Web site. |
| Why should I wait until I’m 21 to drink? |
The risks associated with consuming alcohol are higher for people under 21. the earlier in life a person starts drinking, the more likely it is that they will experience short- or long-term alcohol-related problems. People who start drinking in their teens are more likely to become dependent on alcohol than people who begin drinking later in life. Heavy drinking does more damage to the brains of people in their teens and very early twenties than it does to the brains of older individuals. People under 21 who drink are more likely to be involved in a fatal car accident than people over 21 who drink. And, of course, people under 21 can face legal changes for possessing or consuming alcohol. |
| General Financial Education F.A.Q.s |
|---|
| How can I find a part-time job while I’m in school? |
A great resource for Ohio State students is the Student Financial Aid website. This site not only posts work-study positions, but also on-campus and off-campus student positions. Additionally, summer camp positions are also posted, giving you an opportunity to travel while you build your resume! |
| How can I protect myself from identity theft? |
Keep a close eye on all your account statements and notify your bank or credit card company immediately if you notice any discrepancies.
Shred all financial documents that are no longer needed, and store documents you would like to keep in a secure location.
Order a free credit report each year and check for any fraudulent charges or inaccuracies on the report. If you have trouble reading or interpreting your credit report, contact a financial counselor in the Student Wellness Center at 247-4627.
Do not leave account information, Personal Identification Numbers (PINs), passwords, receipts and blank checks where another individual can access them.
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| How can I stop the "pre-approved" credit applications from arriving in the mail every day? |
A 1996 ammendment to the Fair Credit Reporting Act required that the credit bureaus provide an opt-out opportunity for consumers who do not want their names and addresses sold to credit grantors for solicitations. Consumers can take advantage of the right opt-out by calling 1-888-567-8688. By opting out you will no longer receive pre-approved credit offers.
Source: The Credit Road Map by Patrick Ritchie |
| How do I begin the search for grants, scholarships, and loans to pay for college? |
The first step is to fill out the FAFSA at the beginning of each calendar year. Additionally, Rank 2, 3, and 4 students will often have a separate scholarship form to complete within their college in order to be considered for program-specific funds. Outside sources, such as fastweb.com, are also helpful. For more specific information, visit the Ohio State Student Financial Aid web site. |
| How do I create a budget/spending plan? |
There are six main steps to creating a budget/spending plan:
1) Set goals: both short-term and long-term;
2) Keep a weekly spending diary to identify where, on what, and how much you are spending;
3) Review the money you have spend, and identify your needs and your wants, being careful to keep these two separate;
4) Identify all sources of income (including money coming in from your parents);
5) Create a monthly spending plan based on what you discovered in #1 - #4, making sure to meet your “needs” first, before designating funds for your “wants”;
6) At the end of the month, compare your spending plan to what you have actually spent and make adjustments accordingly. For more information, or free assistance with creating a budget/spending plan, call 247-4627. |
| How is my credit score determined? |
Your credit score is determined based on: your payment history (i.e. timely payments, including utilities payments that are in your name); the amount of debt you have outstanding with all creditors; how long you’ve been a credit user; very recent history (i.e. signing up for credit cards on campus, etc.); a mix of credit you hold (i.e. loans, mortgages, credit cards, etc.). |
| How many credit cards should I have? |
One is enough. Choose a card with a good APR, as well as a low credit limit. Your local bank may offer the perfect card for you to use to begin building a credit history. For more information about selecting a credit card, call 247-4627 to schedule a free appointment with a financial counselor at the Student Wellness Center. |
| I have a lot of credit card debt…what can I do? |
Free credit counseling is available through the Student Wellness Center. A counselor will work with you to create an individualized debt repayment plan to help you reach your goals and payoff your debt. Call 247-4627 to make an appointment. |
| Should I work while enrolled in classes? |
This is usually a decision that needs to be made with your parents, however, studies have shown that there is a correlation between working part-time and strong academic performance. Time management, responsibility and leadership skills learned on the job can go a long way in the classroom! |
| What is a credit score? |
Your credit score is a numerical representation of your credit behavior, ranging from 501 – 990 (Vantage Score) and 300 – 850 (FICO). Your score is reviewed by creditors when you are applying for loans, car leases, mortgages, etc., and is essentially used to assess your financial strength. |
| What is loan consolidation? |
Consolidation allows you to convert multiple loans into a single loan with a fixed interest rate. In other words, borrowers can extend the repayment period allowing a reduction in monthly payment amounts, freeing up more money for other expenses. Contact a financial counselor at the Student Wellness Center (247-4627) to find out if loan consolidation is right for you. |
| What should I do if my credit card is lost or stolen? |
If your credit card is lost or stolen, report it to the appropriate credit card company immediately. If you report in a timely manner, you will typically only be held liable for up to $50 in fraudulent charges made on your card. |
| Where should I store my financial information? |
First, record your card numbers, expiration dates, and credit card company and bank phone numbers. (The easiest approach may be to photocopy the actual card.) Be sure lock-up this information in a safe place where only you can access it. Think about purchasing a small safe, or renting a lockbox at your local bank. |
| Why does my credit score matter? |
A high credit score may translate to a better rate on a loan in the future. Unfortunately, the reverse is also true. A poor credit score can result in being turned down for future credit, or paying higher interest rates. Paying bills on time and managing your debt today may have a huge impact on your future financial situation. |
| Will closing a credit card account erase any late payments I made? |
Closing an account does NOT change the history of the account. In fact, it is always better to leave an account open, especially in the case of revolving (i.e. credit card) debt. A single late payment may be removed by the creditor if you ask or are able to demonstrate that you made a good faith effort to get the payment sent in, but extenuating circumstances prevented it from taking place. BUT...you will have NO negotiating power if you have already closed the account and are no longer a customer of the institution.
Source: The Credit Road Map by Patrick Ritchie |
| General Wellness F.A.Q.s |
|---|
| Can moderate to low-intensity physical activity bring benefits? |
Most definitely. When done for as little 30 minutes a day, activities such as pleasure walking, climbing stairs, gardening, yard work, moderate to heavy housework, dancing and home exercise have been shown to be beneficial to health. Again, doing anything is better than nothing. Also, recent research suggests that the same benefits can be gained from doing physical activity in as little as 10 minute increments…just add them up! |
| How can I get rid of the fat around my stomach, hips, or ANY-BODY-PART? |
Repeat after me "You can't spot reduce!" Men generally store fat around their waist, while women generally keep it around their hips. There is no exercise, magical cream (yet), plastic wrap procedure, or anything else (other than liposuction) that will remove fat from a certain area. The best way to get and keep a washboard stomach or shapely hips is by following a low-fat diet and doing plenty of aerobic exercises. Crunches or leg exercises may strengthen and build the muscle, but it will not make them appear through the layer of fat between them and the skin. Get rid of the fat and the abs will show up and/or the hips will become firm and trim. |
| How can I incorporate more physical activity into my life here at OSU? |
Walk or bike to get around. Walk instead of taking the bus, or get off the bus a stop early and walk the rest of the way. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Take fitness breaks when studying. Exercise while watching TV. Take a walk with friends. Go dancing. Do anything that gets you moving! |
| How can I keep the calories that I consume in check? |
One way is portion management. Be mindful about the amount of food you eat on each occasion at breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. You may still enjoy your favorite foods, just in moderation. To learn more about portion sizes and how choose the amounts that are right for you, visit www.mypyramid.gov. Limiting your intake of foods that are high in fat and/or added sugars can also help you to keep your calories in check. |
| How do I find my training heart rate zone? |
For the most beneficial aerobic workout, exercise intensity should be between 65% and 85% of your maximum heart rate. You can find that my taking 220 minus your age (e.g. A 20 year old has a max heart rate of 220-20=200). Multiply that heart rate by 0.65 and 0.85 to find your training heart rate zone (e.g. 130-170 beats per minute for a 20 year old). Keeping your heart rate in this zone will provide the most aerobic benefit. To see if you are in this zone, take your pulse at carotid or radial artery for 15 seconds while exercising (or just after stopping), and multiply this number by 4. That number should be in the zone, or you can make adjustments to how hard you are working. |
| How fast should I lose weight? |
Health experts recommend losing weight at a rate of no more than 1-2 pounds per week. Losing weight too quickly seldom leads to lasting results. It may also cause a loss of water weight and lean tissue and may increase your risk for health problems such as gallstones. Losing 1-2 pounds of fat per week translates into a “calorie deficit” of 500 to 1000 calories per day, which can be achieved through a combination of eating less and being more physically active. Losing even a 1/4-1/2 pound per week is a worthy goal. This translates into a “calorie deficit” of 125-250 calories per day. At that rate, you could weigh about 12 to 25 pounds less in a year! |
| How much should I be exercising? |
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends engaging in aerobic exercise (e.g. walking, jogging, biking, swimming) 3-5 times a week for 20-60 minutes. The ACSM recommends exercising at an intensity such that your heart rate reaches 55-95% of your maximum heart rate. (See the next question for more information.). In addition to aerobic exercise, the ACSM recommends performing resistance training (e.g. weight lifting, pushups, sit-ups) 2-3 times a week, and stretching at least 3 times/week. |
| I have never exercised before. Where do I begin? |
Consult your doctor if you have a health condition that may limit your ability to do physical activity. Next, seek instruction on basic techniques for any type of strength training, flexibility, or aerobic activity that is new to you. Www.exrx.net is a good resource. Recreational Sports also has a personal training program. Check out their Web site www.recsports.osu.edu for more information. Avoid pushing too hard, too fast! Increase your duration and/or intensity gradually. Most importantly, find activities that you enjoy doing, and vary your routine to keep it interesting. |
| Is a low-carb diet a good way to lose weight? |
No. There is nothing magic about a low-carb, high-protein diet. When such diets work it is because they are a low-calorie diet. There are lots of reasons going low-carb is not a good idea. Just as your car runs best on a certain type of fuel, so does the human body. Unfortunately the low-carbohydrate diets are not the fuel mix the human body was designed to run on. There are also many health risks associated with consuming a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet over the long run. Risk for heart disease is increased greatly, as well as risk for many cancers. Low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets can also contribute to high blood pressure, gout, and osteoporosis. These are not the only problems! |
| Should I skip breakfast to cut calories? |
Although skipping breakfast is a popular calorie-cutting strategy among some dieters, it usually backfires. Forgoing your morning meal may cause you to overeat later in the day. It will also keep your metabolism at its low resting level until you do eat. Also, research shows that people who succeed at losing weight, and keeping it off, almost always eat breakfast. |
| What is the best way to maintain a healthy weight? |
Research suggests that regular physical activity is key to managing one’s weight over the long term. Aerobic exercise (e.g. walking, running, biking, swimming) burns calories and increases resting metabolism. Resistance training (E.g. lifting weights) helps to build active muscle tissue which burns more calories than fat tissue. Being mindful of the calories you consume from food is also important.
Research suggests that subtracting 100 calories a day could go a long way toward helping you manage your weight, whether it is done by cutting out 100 calories from food, or burning 100 calories by doing more physical activity.
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| Why am I gaining weight now that I started an exercise program? |
When a person begins an exercise program they will typically lose fat tissue and gain muscle tissue. Muscle tissue is denser than fat; that means muscle weighs more than fat, but takes up less space. When a person gains muscle and loses fat, the number on the scale goes up even though their clothes are getting looser. |
| HIV/AIDS - Demographics |
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| Has the number of people with HIV/AIDS decreased or increased in the past 5 years? |
Advances in medications have allowed people living with HIV/AIDS to live longer lives, so the numbers of people living with HIV/AIDS has steadily increased over the past five years. While fewer people are dying each year from AIDS due to these medications and longer life expectancies, unfortunately, there has been no comparable decrease in the number of new HIV infections each year. |
| How many African-American females become HIV-positive each year? |
Among all new HIV cases reported among women in 2001 (approximately 12,000), African-American women accounted for nearly 64% of them, or about 7,700. HIV/AIDS was the third leading cause of death for African-American women between the ages of 25 and 44 in 1999. |
| How many people are living with HIV/AIDS and are not aware of it? |
It has been estimated that approximately 90% of young people infected with HIV do not know it. In addition, during 2000, of persons with positive tests for HIV in the estimated 2 million CDC-funded test sites, 31% did not return to learn their test results. Of 573 HIV-positive young MSM (men who have sex with men) who were studied in six U.S. cities, 77% were unaware that they were infected. |
| I have heard that AIDS affects mostly Hispanics and African-Americans. Has that changed recently? |
Among the 40,000 new HIV infections in the United States each year, the CDC estimates that 54% of those new infections occur among African-Americans, 26% among whites, and 19% among the Hispanic population. While African-Americans and Hispanics are disproportionately affected by HIV, remember that HIV affects people from all backgrounds, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and walks of life. |
| What percent of young people have HIV/AIDS? |
There is no definite percentage, because it has been estimated that about 90% of young people who are infected with HIV do not know it. However, in 1999, HIV was the fifth leading cause of death for Americans between the ages of 25 and 44, and many of these young adults likely were infected in their teens and twenties. It has been estimated that at least half of all new infections in the United States occur among people under 25. |
| What race and gender is disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS? |
According to the CDC, estimates of new annual infections of HIV are occurring disproportionately more among heterosexual, African-American women. |
| HIV/AIDS - General Information |
|---|
| Are the majority of people living with HIV/AIDS gay? |
HIV affects people from all backgrounds and sexual orientations. It is not a “gay disease”. It is estimated that men who have sex with men represent about 42% of new HIV infections in the U.S., heterosexual men and women make up 33%, and intravenous drug users make up 25%. Also, women are rapidly catching up to men in terms of global AIDS cases. |
| How close are researchers coming to finding a cure or vaccine for the disease? |
There are two types of vaccines being studied: 1) those that prevent the initial HIV infection, and 2) those that slow down the virus in someone already infected. Studies on vaccines are being done all the time, but there is no timeline for when they will "find the cure". |
| How did HIV start? |
We do not know. Scientists have different theories about the origin of HIV, but none have been proven. The earliest known case of HIV was from a blood sample collected in 1959 from a man in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. (How he became infected is unknown.) Genetic analysis of this blood sample suggests that HIV-1 may have stemmed from a single virus in the late 1940's or early 1950's. We do know that the virus has existed in the United States since at least the mid to late 1970's. |
| How long can a person live after being diagnosed with full-blown AIDS? |
Again, this varies greatly from person to person and depends on many things, including a person's health status and their health-related behaviors. Today there are treatments that can prevent or cure some of the illnesses associated with AIDS, though the treatments do not cure AIDS itself. As with other diseases, early detection offers more options for treatment and preventative health care. |
| Is there a cure for HIV? |
No. However, today there are medical treatments that can slow down the rate at which HIV weakens the immune system. People are living longer with HIV/AIDS than ever before, but there is still no cure. |
| What are the chances of a baby surviving if the mother has AIDS? |
Of the babies born to HIV+ mothers, 20-30% of them will also be infected with HIV. If the mother is aware of her HIV+ status and is on treatment, that number can drop to 8-15%. |
| What is the difference between HIV and AIDS? |
AIDS stands for acquired immune deficiency syndrome. AIDS is caused by infection with a virus called human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). An HIV-infected person receives a diagnosis of AIDS after developing one of the CDC-defined AIDS indicator illnesses. An HIV-positive person who has not had any serious illnesses also can receive an AIDS diagnosis on the basis of certain blood tests (CD4+ counts). An HIV-positive result does not mean that a person has AIDS. A diagnosis of AIDS is made by a physician using certain clinical criteria (AIDS indicator illnesses). |
| When does HIV turn into AIDS? How long can you have HIV/AIDS before you develop the symptoms? |
This time varies greatly from person to person and depends on many factors. Studies of thousands of people have revealed that most people infected with HIV carry the virus for years before enough damage is done to the immune system for AIDS to develop. Since 1992, scientists have estimated that about half the people with HIV develop AIDS within 10 years after becoming infected. |
| HIV/AIDS - Testing |
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| How do you go about getting tested for HIV/AIDS at the Wellness Center? Where do you go? |
You can call the Student Wellness Center at 292-4527 to make an appointment for an anonymous HIV test. Plan to arrive about 5 minutes prior to your appointment time. On the OSU campus, come to room B130 of the Recreation and Physical Activity Center (RPAC), 337 W. 17th Street. Let the SWC front desk office associate know that you have a "Wellness Appointment". When you called to make the appointment, the person scheduling it should have given you a four-digit number. Give this number to the front desk worker when you check in as well as your appointment time. |
| How long does it take for the HIV virus to show in the test results? If I had unprotected sex 2 months ago, can I check if I have HIV/AIDS yet? If exposed to HIV, how long does it take to appear on a blood test? |
Typically, it takes the body six months to develop enough antibodies to be detected by the Orasure test. If you plan on getting tested at the Student Wellness Center, we would recommend that you wait and get tested six months after your last possible exposure to the virus (i.e., last incidence of unprotected sexual intercourse). Most of the blood tests administered at other HIV testing sites are also antibody tests with the same 6 month window period. You may request an antigen blood test, (typically at a medical center), which tests for the presence of the virus, but it is typically quite expensive. In this type of test, it takes the virus anywhere from 6-10 days to show up. |
| How long does it take to receive the results after taking an HIV test? |
Presently, if tested at the Student Wellness Center, results take one week. The Columbus Health Department now administers the Murex Rapid Test, which gives results in approximately one hour. |
| How often should you get tested for HIV if you are sexually active? |
We would recommend including your sexual health in your overall physical health check-ups. Generally, a good rule of thumb is to get tested once a year. However, keep in mind the six month window period: it usually takes your body up to six months after becoming infected with HIV to build up enough antibodies to be detected by a typical HIV antibody test. In other words, if you've engaged in behavior that may have put you at increased risk of becoming infected with HIV (i.e., unprotected sex, sharing needles), wait six months after the last known exposure before you get tested for HIV. Questions? Call the Student Wellness Center at 292-4527. |
| Is it possible to contract HIV from being tested for HIV? |
No. The Student Wellness Center uses the OraSure test, so there are no needles involved. However, even in a blood drawn test, similar to donating blood, there is no exchange of fluids and clean needles are always used, so it is not possible to contract HIV from being tested that way, either. |
| What happens if you take a HIV test and it comes up positive? If a HIV test is positive, would the person be contacted if they failed to return for the result? |
Unfortunately, if the person took an anonymous test, the answer is no. At the Student Wellness Center, we administer an anonymous HIV test, which means that we gather no identifying information about the person being tested. We don't know the person's name, phone number, etc. However, other sites may administer a confidential test, in which case the result becomes a part of the person's medical record, and he or she will be contacted. If a test comes back positive, the person is given the option to retest immediately. This is essentially the start of a process to assist and support the person, including contact with a physician and any other resources the person may need to understand the result and the options available to him/her. |
| What is involved in being tested for HIV/AIDS? |
At the Student Wellness Center, we administer the Orasure test. The test itself, which involves no needles or blood draw, only takes 2 minutes. A cotton swab is placed between your cheek and gum, which draws antibodies out of your cheek and gum cells. However, we are required to counsel or talk to the person receiving the test about his or her individual risk factors for HIV transmission and discuss ways to reduce that risk. The entire process takes approximately 20 minutes. |
| HIV/AIDS - Transmission |
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| Can HIV be transmitted through saliva? |
No! Although there is a miniscule amount of the HIV virus in an infected individual's saliva, no one has ever been documented as having become infected through contact with an infected person's saliva. The four body fluids that have been proven to transmit the HIV virus are blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. |
| Can you get HIV from performing oral sex? |
Yes, it is possible for you to become infected with HIV through performing oral sex. If you choose to have oral sex, it is recommended you use a latex barrier such as a flavored condom (on a male partner) or dental dam (or cut-open condom that makes a square on a female partner). While no one knows exactly what the degree of risk is, evidence suggests that the risk is less than that of unprotected anal or vaginal sex. |
| Can you get HIV from receiving oral sex? |
Yes, it is possible for you to become infected with HIV through receiving oral sex, but it is extremely uncommon. If your partner has HIV, blood from cuts in their mouth would have to enter the urethra (the opening at the tip of the penis), the vagina, the anus, or directly into the body through small cuts or open sores. While no one knows exactly what the degree of risk is, evidence suggests that the risk is less than that of unprotected anal or vaginal sex. The greater risk definitely exists with the person performing oral sex. However, if you choose to have oral sex, it is recommended you use a latex barrier such as a flavored condom (on a male partner) or dental dam (or cut-open condom that makes a square on a female partner). |
| Can you get HIV if you correctly use a condom? |
Studies have shown that latex condoms are highly effective in preventing HIV transmission when used consistently and correctly. However, keep in mind that nothing is 100% safe except abstinence. Do you know how to use condoms correctly? Join the Condom Club to find out the proper steps in putting on a condom and buy up to 50 condoms for $5! |
| How long does HIV live in the open air and able to infect another person (i.e., someone with HIV cuts themselves shaving)? |
HIV is not an air or food-borne virus, and it does not live long outside the body. Although HIV has been transmitted between family members in a household setting, this type of transmission is very rare. (The CDC does suggest that practices that increase the likelihood of blood contact, such as sharing of razors or toothbrushes, should be avoided.) |
| Is HIV in cerebral fluid? |
The four body fluids that have been proven to spread HIV are blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and breast milk. However, there are three additional body fluids that health care workers may come into contact with that may transmit HIV: 1) cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and the spinal cord, 2) synovial fluid surrounding bone joints, and 3) amniotic fluid surrounding a fetus. |
| Is HIV smaller than the pores in a condom? |
Latex condoms do not have pores, and they act as barriers against the fluids that contain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV. Lambskin condoms, however, are porous, and viruses for STI's and HIV can pass through them. The protective effects of polyurethane (or non-latex, plastic) condoms against STIs are unknown. If you or your partner has a latex allergy and must use polyurethane condoms, in order to reduce your risk against STIs, it is recommended that you also wear a latex condom. If you are a male and allergic to latex, you would put the polyurethane condom on first, and the latex condom on top, so that the latex is not touching your skin. If you are a male and your partner is allergic to latex, you would put the latex condom on first, and the polyurethane condom on top so that the latex is not touching your partner's skin. |
| Is it true that you can get HIV by using public restrooms? |
No. No one has ever been identified as becoming infected with HIV due to contact with an environmental surface. It is not transmitted by day-to-day casual contact in the workplace, schools, or social settings including public restrooms, payphones, etc. |
| Is there a way to prevent the transfer of HIV from a mother to a child? Is there currently any research into developing a means to do so? |
Currently, there is no 100% effective method of preventing the transfer of HIV from mother to child, but there is plenty of research being done in all areas of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment. Research has found that 20-30% of babies born to mothers with HIV will also have HIV. However, if the mother knows her HIV status and is on appropriate treatment and medication, that percentage drops to 8-15%. |
| What are the chances of contracting AIDS through needles and blood usage nowadays? |
In terms of blood usage or donation, screening the blood supply for HIV and heat-treating blood products for the treatment of hemophilia have nearly eliminated HIV transmission today through these early transmission routes. A person cannot contract HIV from donating blood since sterile needles are used with every donor. However, the HIV virus can still be transmitted through sharing needles or injection equipment with an infected person just as easily today as in the past. |
| What are the chances that the HIV virus will get through the condom during intercourse? |
According to the CDC, studies have shown that latex condoms are highly effective in preventing HIV transmission when used consistently and correctly. These studies looked at uninfected people considered to be at very high risk of infection because they were involved in sexual relationships with HIV-infected people. The studies found that even with repeated sexual contact, 98-100 percent of those people who used latex condoms correctly and consistently did not become infected. Do you know how to use condoms correctly? Join the Condom Club to find out the proper steps in putting on a condom and buy up to 50 condoms for $5! |
| What are the most common ways of getting HIV? |
These are the most common ways that HIV is transmitted from one person to another:
1) By having sexual intercourse (anal, vaginal, or oral) with an HIV-infected person
2) By sharing needles or injection equipment with an injection drug user (heroin, steroids, etc.) who is infected with HIV
3) From HIV-infected women to babies before or during birth, or through breast feeding after birth |
| What is the biggest cause of the spread of AIDS: sex or needles? |
According to the cumulative number of AIDS cases reported to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) through 2001, more than 50% of them were exposed to the HIV virus through sexual contact. Approximately 25% of the cases were exposed through injection drug use (sharing needles). The remaining cases' exposure categories were either unknown or related to blood transfusions, hemophilia, and other coagulation disorders. |
| Sex & Sexuality |
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| What is abstinence? |
Abstinence:
- the only 100% safe choice
- means waiting for the right person, time, and place to have sex.
- can last for an evening or for years, or any time in between.
- can include talking, touching, dry kissing, massage, and masturbation.
|
| What is safer sex? |
Safer sex means:
- consent from both parties.
- neither partner is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
- the use of latex barriers every time you engage in sexual activity, including 1) the use of a latex condom for vaginal and anal sex, 2) the use of a flavored latex condom for oral sex, 3) the use of a latex doily (or dental dam) during oral-to-vaginal or oral-to-anal contact.
- the use of only water-based lubricants like "KY Jelly" or "WET" with latex condoms and doilies.
|
| What is sexual responsibility? |
Sexual responsibility is being aware of: your own choices, other people's choices, and your partner's state of mind when making sexual decisions. |
| Sexual Assault |
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| On average, how many women and men get raped on the OSU campus? |
This is not a question that we feel qualified to answer, although we can tell you that rape is traditionally a very underreported crime, so typically, keep in mind that any statistics you may acquire may not be representative of what actually occurs. For more information, contact The Ohio State University's Rape Education and Prevention Program at 292-0479, or repp@osu.edu. |
| STDs - General Information |
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| Are there any STIs that are linked to HIV? |
If a person is diagnosed with any sexually transmitted infection (STI), he or she is at an increased risk of acquiring HIV because the risky (i.e. unsafe) sexual behavior that caused the person to acquire an STI also makes that person more susceptible to contracting HIV, if he or she has been exposed to the virus. In addition, STIs such as genital herpes, genital warts, and syphilis can all result in open sores on the genital area, which greatly increases a person's risk of acquiring HIV since an open sore provides a direct path for HIV to enter the bloodstream. |
| Considering the fact that there are certain STIs that have no cures, how would an infected individual be able to have a normal life? |
There are many people who are infected with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) out there who have happy sex lives. First of all, open communication with every sexual partner is highly recommended. In addition, there are various groups you can contact to learn more about the disease and/or speak with others who are in similar situations. Try the CDC National STD Hotline at (800) 227-8922. You can also contact the American Social Health Association's Resource Center at (800) 230-6039 to subscribe to certain newsletters and receive more information. Source: http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu.
|
| How many different STIs exist? |
According to the CDC National STD Hotline, it is estimated that there are close to 30 or more STIs in existence, but some of those are very rare, or are not common in the United States. |
| How many STIs are deadly? Which ones can't you get rid of? |
Any viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) is one that you "can't get rid of", including: HPV (Human Papilloma virus), Genital Herpes (Herpes Simplex Virus 2), and HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). Other STIs, which are caused by bacteria or parasites and can be easily cured with antibiotics, can be deadly or do permanent damage to the body if left untreated, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis and syphilis. Although these STIs are treatable, most of the time, you won't know you're infected unless you get tested. The consequences of having an untreated STI, such as infertility, can be permanent. Finally, a diagnosis of an STI increases a person's risk of acquiring HIV, the most deadly STI of all |
| Of all STIs, how many are condoms effective against? |
First, keep in mind that condoms are not 100% effective in preventing the transmission of any sexually transmitted infection (STI). The only 100% safe choice is abstinence. That said, when used consistently and correctly, condoms are highly effective in preventing the sexual transmission of HIV. In addition, when used consistently and correctly, condoms can reduce the risk of transmission of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. Correct and consistent use of latex condoms can reduce the risk of genital herpes and syphilis only when the infected area or site of potential exposure is protected/covered by the condom. The effect of condoms in preventing HPV infection is unknown. STIs like genital herpes, HPV, and syphilis can manifest themselves on areas not protected/covered by a condom, so open communication with your partner about risk and sexual history is critical. Since many STIs show no symptoms in those infected, getting tested is extremely important. |
| Once you receive a viral STI, does it always linger in your body or can you get rid of it once and for all? |
Viral sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as herpes (herpes simplex viruses), HPV* (human papilloma virus), and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), are the "ones you can't get rid of". While there are antiviral medications and other treatment options available to lessen the severity of the symptoms associated with the disease, there is no cure for these viral STIs, and they stay in your body. Even if the symptoms go away or never surface, you still have the virus and can pass it on to someone else.
*Presently, there is plenty of debate and research being done on HPV. Although researchers simply aren't sure, it has been reported that some strains of HPV may disappear on their own. However, researchers aren't sure if it completely goes away or comes back. For the most recent updates on HPV, check out the CDC Division of Sexually Transmitted Diseases at http://www.cdc.gov/nchstp/dstd/dstdp.html, and the American Social Health Association at http://www.ashastd.org/. |
| What are the most common STIs? |
In the United States, the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs)(in order of highest number of estimated new cases each year) are genital HPV infection, trichomoniasis, chlamydia, genital herpes, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, syphilis, and HIV/AIDS. To learn more about these STIs, see our About STIs page. |
| What is the fastest spreading STI in the U.S. and at The Ohio State University? |
It is estimated that about 75% of sexually active adults of reproductive age will acquire genital HPV infection, which can cause genital warts. This may be the "fastest spreading" sexually transmitted infection (STI) simply because it is difficult to diagnose and document due to the fact that many infected individuals do not show symptoms (Very few infected individuals develop genital warts; most develop invisible subclinical infections), and cases of this STI are not reported to the CDC. In terms of reported cases, chlamydia is the most frequently reported STI in the U.S. (and Columbus). |
| What STIs can be contracted from oral sex? |
Herpes can definitely be transmitted through unprotected oral sex to the giver or to the recipient if a sore on the genitals or on the mouth is in the infectious stage. It is believed that HIV can also be transmitted through unprotected oral sex. In addition to the ejaculate, the virus can also be present in the pre-ejaculate or "pre-cum" if it contains sperm. Yeast infections, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be transmitted through oral sex, but genital warts cannot. With chlamydia and gonorrhea, it is possible to pass it to the throat if a person performs oral sex on an infected man.
Source for this answer: http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu |
| What STIs can be cured? |
Bacterial and parasitic sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be treated with antibiotics. These STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. However, if left untreated, these STIs can cause serious and permanent adverse health effects, including infertility. |
| STDs - Symptoms |
|---|
| What are some symptoms of syphilis? |
To learn more about syphilis, visit our Syphilis information page. |
| What are some warning signs to recognize a STI? |
Different sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have different symptoms (check out About STDs). However, please keep in mind that almost all STIs frequently show NO symptoms at all in the majority of individuals infected with them, so it is important not to rely on the physical manifestation of visible symptoms to determine whether or not you may have contracted a STI. Instead, talk to a health professional and assess your degree of risk to determine whether you should get tested. |
| What are the STIs with no visible signs? |
To find out more about specific sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and their statistics, symptoms, and treatment, check out our About STDs page. It is possible to be infected with almost any STI and have no visible symptoms. Some STIs don't show symptoms until serious, irreversible, permanent damage has already been done, and others have symptoms that are so mild that they are mistaken for other things (like a rash or bladder infection) or not noticed at all. If you are sexually active, you should not wait for symptoms to show before going to get tested. |
| STDs - Testing |
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| Are STI tests provided free of charge? |
No. At Student Health Services here on campus, the cost of the test will vary depending on your insurance coverage and the circumstances surrounding the test. Contact your insurance provider for the best information. For other options, check out our list of STI testing sites in Columbus on the Resources page. |
| If you are sexually active, how often should you get tested for STIs? |
Obviously, if you are showing symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), you should see a doctor immediately. However, since many STIs have no symptoms, if you are sexually active, it is a good idea to include your sexual health in your annual physical health check-ups. If you see a doctor once a year for a physical or annual pap smear, remind yourself to also go get a STI and HIV test too (either from your doctor or at a separate site). Women: do not assume that your gynecologist is testing you for STIs during your annual pap smear. While an abnormal pap may indicate the presence of HPV, and STI, you are not specifically getting tested for STIs unless you ask! |
| STDs - Types & Transmission |
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| Can you get an STI (i.e., Herpes) by sitting on the same toilet seat as an infected person? |
No. First of all, STIs, including HIV and genital herpes, cannot be transmitted through everyday, casual contact, which includes public restrooms, public telephones, door knobs, hot tubs, etc. Secondly, most STI viruses or bacteria simply do not live long enough outside the body to infect another person. And finally, there must be close, intimate contact (skin to skin) or exchange of fluid for transmission of STIs to occur. |
| Can you get herpes from kissing someone? |
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) causes infections of the mouth and lips, often called “cold sores” or “fever blisters”. Yes, a person can get HSV-1 by coming in contact with the saliva of an infected person. Typically, the virus that causes infection of the genitals is HSV-2 (herpes simplex virus 2), and a person almost always gets genital herpes during sexual contact with someone who has a genital HSV-2 infection. However, it is definitely possible for a person to have HSV-1 infection of the genitals by having oral-genital sexual contact with a person who has the HSV-1 infection of the mouth. |
| What types of STIs can you get from oral sex? |
First, you can get any sexually transmitted infection (STI) from GIVING unprotected oral sex, though the risks vary depending on the STI. For example, there is a lower risk of contracting HIV, HPV, or chlamydia through unprotected oral sex than through unprotected vaginal or anal sex, although a risk still does exist. However, other STIs can be transmitted much more easily through oral sex, including yeast infections, herpes, gonorrhea, and syphilis. If you are RECEIVING oral sex, transmission of a STI is less likely, unless your partner has herpes (cold sores or fever blisters) on his or her mouth. |
