I got this email a few days back:

I am paranoid because I think I have HIV. I had sex with a woman a month ago, and now I have a flu. I read in the internet that the first symptoms of HIV is similar to a flu. My question is, when you were young, was there a point in your life when you got paranoid? What did you do? And, did you ever have STD? Is it normal to have to if you have sex a lot? What did you do, and did you stop having sex with a lot of people? Thank you. I am 17 years old and very paranoid.

First of all, I have always been somewhat paranoid. I frequently imagine the worst case. And in a life of sex and pay-for-pleasure, one scenario that never fails to cause me dread is HIV. That is why I always bring and use a condom. I bring a condom when I meet an escort. I bring a condom when I go to a KTV.

When I am with a PSP, I refrain from any swapping of bodily fluids, which would mean no heavy kissing and no partying at the Y.

I also watch my health. Exercise for me is not just about improving and maintaining performance in bed, it’s the first defense against infections.

Hygiene is important to me. After the act, I always take a shower and I make sure that I throughly wash my privates. In a KTV, I always have those alcohol-laced tissues. A doctor-friend once advised me as well to pee after sex as the urine can flush out bacteria and other infectious agents.

My partner also has to be conscious of personal hygiene. If she isn’t, then alarm bells start ringing in my head. She has to look and smell clean.

And lastly, I have regular health checks.

As a result, I am in good health. I have no problems with blood pressure and cholesterol. And I never had an STD. I attribute this to good health, good hygiene, plus a good supply of condoms.