Living Positively With HIV

Jul 13, 2025 | blog, Sexual Health

It all started when I was in 5th grade. I got sick at school, and the principal called my mom, telling her I was experiencing severe abdominal pain. She rushed me to the hospital, and I was diagnosed with appendicitis. But that year, those few days in particular, changed everything for me.

That was when I learned something that made me feel inferior to other students, to my family members, and to people in general. My dad told me I was HIV positive. He even told my friends’ families, thinking they would show me a little more empathy or keep an eye on me when I played with their children. But instead, he shattered the privacy and innocence I had. At that age, no one really keeps secrets, especially not ones like that.

Even though deep down I know I am not the problem, it’s hard not to connect every experience of rejection to that one truth about me. Every time I was bullied at school, left out of events, or looked at differently, I couldn’t help but think it was because of that.

Now, I’m a second-year university student. Here, no one knows the virus that lives within me. To them, I’m just a girl from a well-off family who’s accomplished everything she set her mind to. I have friends, some really close ones, too, the kind I share nearly all my secrets with. But they still don’t know the biggest one.

Sometimes, I think about the guys who flirt with me, who ask me to sleep with them without knowing who I really am. And I wonder what I would’ve done if I hadn’t come this far in my healing journey.

Over the past few years, I challenged myself to grow beyond the darkness in my own mind. I started listening to motivational podcasts on YouTube, reading all kinds of books, and journaling to keep track of my growth and achievements. I began taking my medication consistently, something my mom used to remind me to do every day. Now, I don’t need her to check in. I eat well, sleep well, and I’m fully focused on becoming the best version of myself.

Still, I feel a deep sadness for my mom. I can’t imagine how much guilt she’s carried, thinking she’s the one who brought this into my life. And truthfully, I didn’t make it easy for her either, and that breaks my heart. Now, I’m trying to spend as much time with her as I can. I’m working on that.

So, when Hermon asked me to share my story and give some advice, here’s what I want you all to know:
You are not the problem. One day, you’ll see that clearly. And when that day comes, you’ll be proud of how far you’ve come.

Written by : – Hermon Israel, 4th Year Medical Student

Understanding PrEP, PEP and ART: What Youth Should Know

Jul 7, 2025 | blog, Sexual Health

HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If left untreated, it can lead to AIDS, a condition where the immune system becomes very weak and unable to fight infections. While HIV is a serious health issue, it is not a death sentence. With proper knowledge and the right tools, young people can protect themselves and others from it. Even those living with HIV can live long, healthy lives.
An important aspect of the fight against HIV that has been often overlooked in awareness campaigns is the knowledge about its powerful medications. Apart from the ABC method (Abstain, Be Faithful, Use Condoms), these medicines are the cornerstone of HIV treatment. They can be functionally grouped into three: PrEP, PEP and ART.

What is PrEP?

Pre–Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is protection aimed at reducing risk of HIV infection when risk of infection is high. It is a daily pill taken by people who are HIV-negative but are at high risk of getting HIV. It can be recommended for individuals who are assumed to have unavoidable exposure such as those whose partners are HIV-positive. When taken consistently, PrEP can reduce the risk of HIV by over 90%.
PrEP is available in many health facilities in Ethiopia, especially in urban areas like Addis Ababa, Hawassa, and Bahir Dar. It is safe, free in many centers. If you think you’re at risk, ask your nearest healthcare provider about PrEP.

What is PEP?

Post–Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is an emergency medication for people who may have already been exposed to HIV. PEP must be started within 72 hours (3 days) after exposure, such as through unprotected sex, sexual assault, or a needle injury. Many of the drugs used in PEP are also used in the prevention of HIV from mother to a child. 
PEP is taken for 28 days and can significantly reduce the chance of infection. The earlier PEP is started, the more effective it is. If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, don’t delay, go to a nearby health center immediately. Time is critical.

What is ART?

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is the treatment for people living with HIV (PLHIV). ART doesn’t cure HIV, but it helps people live healthy, full lives by reducing the amount of the virus in the body. When taken regularly, ART can lower the viral load to undetectable levels, meaning the virus can’t be detected by standard blood tests. This also means it can’t be transmitted to others during sex. This is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).
Anyone diagnosed with HIV should start ART as soon as possible. The earlier treatment begins, the better the health outcomes. ART is free and available at many health facilities in Ethiopia.

What can you do?

Get tested regularly: Only 86% of PLHIV are aware of their status 
Use condoms and communicate with your partners: Barrier contraception is the only contraception that protects against HIV
Share what you learn, help break the silence and stigma.
HIV is preventable and manageable. With the right choices, you can lead the way to a healthier, HIV-free generation.

Written by :- Dr. Hosaena Gebru

Burning in Bole

Jun 29, 2025 | blog, Sexual Health

One weekend in Addis, just like any other, Natty had a friend visiting from the States, someone he hadn’t seen in a long time. They decided to catch up by going out for drinks and enjoying the vibrant nightlife, indulging in all it had to offer. As the night unfolded, they met new people at the clubs, and Natty took a liking to someone with whom he danced, drank, partied and eventually left the scene.
“I would describe it as a mix of euphoria and excitement,” he later said. On the way home, buzzed and unguarded, the heat of the moment gave way to an encounter that felt harmless in its simplicity, fleeting, quick and easy to tuck away. He didn’t think much of it at the time. He didn’t think at all. That was until a few days passed and the “present” he’d unknowingly brought back with him began to unwrap itself.
“I primarily worked as a ride driver and my evening was going like any other day at work. I’d made a quick stop to relieve myself, and that’s when I felt it, a burning sensation followed by a white discharge after finishing. I immediately ran back to my car, heart thudding in my chest, gripped by a storm of emotion.”
There was panic, yes, but not only for himself. It was the timing, the questions he wasn’t ready to ask, let alone answer. The memory of that night started to feel different now, sharper around the edges. What seemed like a moment of freedom had taken a turn he hadn’t imagined.
He spent hours spiraling through internet searches that only made things worse. He couldn’t sit still. The silence in the car was deafening. There was someone waiting for him at home. Someone he loved. Someone who had trusted him.
He didn’t know what to say. He didn’t know if he should say anything. He didn’t even know what exactly he was dealing with. His chest tightened every time he thought of how close they had been just the night before, how careless it had all been.
“Still, my mind couldn’t figure out who to talk to,” he said. “So I called a friend I knew in medical school and told him what was happening, about the night, the symptoms.”
“My voice was probably shaking. He laughed a little at first, maybe because I was rambling, or maybe to ease the tension. But then he got serious and walked me through what I needed to do.”“Relax, man. It’s probably gonorrhea or chlamydia. It sounds textbook. You’ll need a urine test, maybe a swab. They’ll treat you right away, usually a shot and a pill, nothing dramatic.” He told him to be honest at the clinic, to mention how it happened, and reminded him that oral encounters aren’t risk-free, even if people pretend they are. “It’s treatable. Just don’t wait, it’s a good thing you contacted me early on.” And somehow, that calm, matter-of-fact tone held Natty steady.
What lingered, though, wasn’t just the discomfort. It was the realization of how little he’d understood about risk, how something so seemingly minor could ripple out into something far more complicated. The experience stayed with him, not just in body, but in the spaces between trust, guilt, and silence. He learned about STIs that day, especially the kind people rarely talk about. And in doing so, he came face to face with a version of himself he could no longer afford to be.

Disclaimer: All names and places in this story have been changed to protect the privacy of those involved. While the details have been anonymized, the events described remain true.

 

Written by : – Kidus Solomon, 4th Year Medical Student

 

 

What You Need to Know About STIs

Jun 22, 2025 | blog, Sexual Health

Today’s youth are more informed and connected than ever, but when it comes to sexual health, gaps in knowledge still lead to risky choices and bad decisions. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) remain a major health issue. Whether you’re in a committed relationship, exploring new ones, or somewhere in between, it’s crucial to understand how STIs show up and what you can do to stay safe.

STIs are passed from one person to another through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Many are treatable, especially when caught early. In Ethiopia, where lab testing may not be easily accessible, STIs are diagnosed and treated using a syndromic approach. This means healthcare providers look for clusters of symptoms to decide on the best treatment. Let’s look at the three most common ones:

  1. Urethral and Vaginal Discharge

If you notice unusual discharge from your penis or vagina, and it is accompanied by a burning sensation during urination, or itching, you are most likely dealing with bacterial or fungal infections. These point to infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia and, in women, could also be a sign of bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, or candidiasis (commonly known as yeast infection). STIs presenting with discharge are usually all curable with appropriate regimen of antibiotics.

  1. Genital Ulcers

Painful or painless sores, ulcers, or open lesions on the genitals or mouth are among the most commonly seen symptoms. They may indicate infections like syphilis, herpes, or chancroid. While treatable, these conditions can lead to serious complications or large wounds if ignored. Painless ulcers are especially dangerous, as they often go unnoticed but can still spread infection.

  1. Genital Warts

Genital warts are often caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus). While some strains only cause warts, high-risk types can lead to cervical and other cancers. The HPV vaccine offers strong protection when given between ages 9–14, before any exposure. For women who are already sexually active and may have been exposed, regular cervical cancer screening is essential for early detection and prevention.

What Should You Do?

  1. Get Tested Regularly:

Even if you feel fine, STIs can often be asymptomatic. If you are sexually active, make testing a regular part of your health routine.

  1. Use Protection:

If used properly and consistently, condoms are 98% protective of STIs. Carry protection with you and don’t be afraid to insist on its use. 

  1. Talk About It:

Have honest conversations with partners about STI status and testing. It’s not awkward, it’s responsible.

  1. Seek Care Early:

If you notice any symptoms, however mild you may perceive them to be, don’t wait. Go to a health center for evaluation and treatment. In Ethiopia, the diagnosis and treatment of most STIs is free at public health facilities.

  1. Complete Treatment & Inform Partners:

Finish the full course of any medication you’re prescribed, and let your partners know so they can get treated too.

Sexual health is just as important as physical or mental health. Staying informed and proactive protects not just you, but your partners and your future. If you have any questions pertaining to your sexual and reproductive health reach out to us, Letena Ethiopia, using any of our platform.

Written by : Dr. Hosaena Gebru

 

Pillow Talk with a Purpose: How to Talk to Your Partner About STI Testing

Jun 15, 2025 | blog, Sexual Health

Talking to your partner about STI testing doesn’t have to be awkward, its not like you are asking them if they believe pineapple belongs on pizza (although that’s a relationship deal breaker for some). Think of it more like asking them to brush their teeth before kissing you, respectful, responsible, and definitely not a mood killer. Start with a calm and casual tone. You could say, “Hey, before we get any closer, I think it’s important we both get tested, just to make sure we’re starting off healthy and safe.” It’s not an accusation; it’s a mutual check-in, like confirming neither of you is allergic to certain type of food or drinks before going to dinner.

 In this scenario, you can visit;

  • Zewditu Memorial Hospital: Free HIV testing, ART, STI treatment
  • AHF Addis Clinic (AIDS Healthcare Foundation): Free HIV/STI testing, counseling, condoms, PEP, PrEP
  • I Addis Ababa University Health Services:Free HIV testing, pregnancy testing, emergency contraception
  • Bole Drop-in Centre: Free HIV/STI testing, PrEP, ART, self-test kits
  • Mary’s Laboratory & HIV Counseling Center: Free HIV testing, education, and support
  • Henry van Ameringen Health Center (Shola Market): Free HIV/STI testing and treatment
  • Marie Stopes Ethiopia: Not free, but highly subsidized and affordable

Now, let’s talk facts, because knowledge is sexy. STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) don’t always come with big neon signs. Many, like Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea, can hang out silently without symptoms, especially in the early stages. Left untreated, they can lead to infertility, chronic pain, or even increased HIV risk. Getting tested doesn’t mean you’re positive, it shows you’re open to test and confident. Plus, testing is often quick, involves a urine sample or a simple swab, and you usually don’t even have to take your pants all the way off (bonus!) and no, it’s not the doctor giving you “the look”, they have literally seen it all, comforting isn’t it?

Going together can actually be a bonding experience. You can even reward yourselves after your clinic visit with a dinner date. The important thing is, testing shows you care about your health  and your partner’s. You’re not giving a lecture, you’re starting a conversation that says, “I like you enough to want us both to be healthy, together.” That’s not awkward, that’s being mature and reflects on your commitment to your partner.

Nothing says “romance” like knowing neither of you has syphilis. And if one of you does? No shame, STIs are incredibly common, treatable, and way less awkward when caught early. Just follow your doctor’s advice and finish your meds (yes, even if your symptoms vanish like your motivation after a long Monday).

At the end of the day, talking about STI testing shows maturity, self-respect, and care for your partner. It’s not about fear, it’s about facts, trust, and keeping your shared love story drama-free. Take a deep breath, keep it light, and remember it’s not about who’s been where—it’s about going forward, healthy and informed, together!

Written by: Hermon Israel, 4th Year Medical Student

How to Reduce Your Risk of STIs

Jun 8, 2025 | blog, Sexual Health

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) have been a concern across many countries for centuries with specific documentations going back 500 years. These early records highlight their persistent effect on both society and the public health sector. They’re more common than you might think! A person with STI may not always show symptoms and because of this many young people may be unaware of their STI status until it gets to the later stages. The good news? STIs can be prevented. In this blog we will discuss simple proven ways to protect yourself and others.

  1. WRAP IT UP!

The proper and consistent usage of condoms is one of the most effective ways of preventing STIs, including HIV, Gonorrhea and Chlamydia. As a bonus it helps in preventing pregnancy too!

For the best outcome:

  • Use a new condom for every sexual intercourse. Never use two at once as that can potentially lead to breakage.
  • Put it on before ANY skin-to-skin or sexual contact
  • Both external (male) and internal (female) condoms are available. You can use whichever is preferred.
  • Watch how to guides or read the instructions on the box for proper application and usage.
  1. BE POSITIVE THAT YOU ARE NEGATIVE!

As previously mentioned some STIs don’t show any symptoms, with that being said it doesn’t mean that they aren’t harmful. For this reason you should:

  • Get tested at least once a year if you are sexually active.
  • If you have multiple partners or a new partner, test every 3-6 months.
  • Encourage your partner to get tested with you.
  • Testing is available at most public and private health care centers. The first step to protecting yours and your partner’s health, is knowing your status.
  • Routine STI testing usually includes:

HIV test – detects HIV
RPR or VDRL – for syphilis
NAAT test – for gonorrhea and chlamydia
Hepatitis B and C tests – for HBV and HCV
Pap smear with HPV test – for high-risk HPV (in women)
Not all clinics test for everything by default, so it helps to ask for a full STI panel.

  1. TALK THAT TALK BEFORE YOU UNLOCK THE SHOCK!

Bringing up the subject of STIs with a partner might feel uncomfortable at the start but once you do, it can be taken as a sign of respect and maturity.

You can broach the subject by asking:

  • When the last time was that they got tested,
  • If you can get tested together

Or making boundaries clear by saying:

  • That you would be having intercourse with condoms only

These conversations can build mutual trust and keep both parties safe.

  1. PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE!

This is one of the most effective methods for preventing transmission of certain diseases like HPV (Human papillomavirus) and HBV (Hepatitis B Virus). Therefore, we have:

  • HPV vaccine: It protects against human papillomavirus, which is a virus that can potentially lead to cervical cancer.
  • Hepatitis B vaccine: This is recommended for all unvaccinated, uninfected people who are sexually active.
  • Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health provides HPV vaccination for girls aged 9–14 as part of its national prevention program.
  1. KNOW WHAT’S NEW: Doxy-PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

Recent studies show that taking a single dose of Doxycycline (an antibiotic) can reduce the risk of any bacterial STI by 46%, with specific reductions of 65% for Chlamydia and 77% for Syphilis. However, this didn’t affect the risk of Gonorrhea infection.

Caution: Always talk to a health provider before using antibiotics this way.

Source: Epocrates 2024, WHO STI Guidelines

  • Where to Go for STI Services in Ethiopia

You can get confidential testing, counseling, and treatment at government local health centers and hospitals, Marie Stopes International, and private clinics.

Final Takeaway:

Protecting yourself from STIs shouldn’t take a backseat because of shame. You should prioritize your sexual health without restrictions.

Knowing this, use condoms, test regularly, ask questions, and if you haven’t yet, get vaccinated.

  • Take control of your health. Start with one small step today.

Written by – Bezawit Elias, 4th Year Medical Student 

wpChatIcon
en English
am Amharicen English