Reproductive health, sexuality and HIV and AIDS
What the exam tests
Reproductive health, sexuality, HIV and AIDS. You need accurate facts about puberty, the menstrual cycle, contraception, STI/HIV transmission and prevention, and the attitudes that reduce stigma.
Key facts
- Puberty is the stage when the body matures sexually. In girls, ovulation and menstruation begin; in boys, sperm production and voice change. These changes vary widely in timing and are normal.
- The menstrual cycle averages about 28 days; ovulation usually occurs near the middle. Pregnancy can occur from sex at any time in the cycle, so the "safe period" is unreliable.
- Contraception: condoms give dual protection against pregnancy and STIs, including HIV. Pills, injectables, implants and IUDs prevent pregnancy but do not protect against HIV or other STIs.
- HIV is transmitted through unprotected sex, infected blood, and from mother to child during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding. It is not spread by hugging, sharing food, mosquitoes or toilets.
- Testing matters because a person can live with HIV for years without symptoms. ART controls the virus and allows a near-normal life; adherence is essential.
- PMTCT services reduce the risk of a mother passing HIV to her baby.
Worked example
A couple uses a contraceptive injection. They are protected from pregnancy but not from HIV or other STIs. The reasoning: the method's mechanism is hormonal, not a barrier. If they also want STI protection, they need condoms, correctly and consistently used.
Stigma and rights
People living with HIV have the same rights to privacy, work, education and dignity. Stigma discourages testing and treatment, so it is a public health problem, not only a moral one.
Traps
- Saying "the pill protects against HIV".
- Claiming you can identify HIV by appearance.
- Confusing HIV with AIDS: HIV is the virus; AIDS is the advanced stage of infection.
- Forgetting consent and the right to refuse sex.