Couples and individuals thinking of engaging in multiple sexual partners are encouraged to get tested to ensure there is no risk of contracting Sexual Transmitted Diseases (STDs) unnecessarily.
This appeal was made by the Medical Manager of the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA), Shanique Greaves, in light of recent allegations of persons spreading various diseases.
According to Greaves, while it is understandable that persons may want to have “fun,” it is crucial to avoid “risky behaviours” when having unprotected sex, especially if multiple parties are involved, because “if you are going to have various sexual partners it is important that you protect yourself as well as your partner.”
Premised on this fact, the Medical Manager is encouraging persons to get tested.
“You do want to ensure when you are engaged in such sexual activity that everyone is on the same page, so at least you know that if you come together and get the exam, get tested, and then you can show each other results that ok we are both going into this relationship, and this is what is going on,” she said in an interview with MTV News Update while speaking on the topic of having multiple sexual partners.
While it is no secret that there are scenarios of persons contracting an STD unknowingly because another party has been exposed to infectious diseases, she is encouraging the use of condoms for persons who may not have the money or time to screen for STDs.
“The condom is known to be one of the most effective forms of contraception as well, and the good thing about it is that it helps to protect persons from sexually transmitted diseases as well as pregnancy.”
However, Jasmin Cort, the Monitoring and Evaluations Officers of GRPA, assured persons who may be worried about the cost and time needed to access these tests that the GRPA can facilitate them done in a reliable manner and at an affordable cost.
Cort provided a breakdown of the various types and cost of STDs test as follows: Syphilis: $1000, HIV and Hepatitis B: $2000 among others. She also assured all results are kept confidential and persons can also access treatment and counselling at the GRPA for a small cost.
Persons who may have further questions on sexual and reproductive health matters can contact the GRPA on 225-4743 or visit their office at 70 Quamina Street, Cummingsburg, Georgetown. Services are offered Mondays-Fridays.
The organisation also occasionally provides free treatment. Persons are encouraged to get tested.
