Living Healthier; Living Safer
What every woman should know about healthy living
Woman & HIV: The number of HIV diagnosis among women has tripled since 1985 and unprotected sex with men is the most common way women acquire HIV.
When to get tested:
Women should get tested at least once a year. This is especially important if…
*You have had unprotected sex with more than one partner.
*Your partner is having sex with someone other than you.
*You have been/are currently in an abusive relationship.
*You have shared or are now sharing needles.
*You have had/are having sex with someone who has HIV or a history of drug abuse.
*You or your partner have been incarcerated.
*You had a blood transfusion between 1978 and 1985.
If you’re having unprotected sex you need to be tested more often.
What do I do if I’m being abused?
You don’t deserve to be abused and there are people who care. Contact a domestic violence program in your community or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or http://www.thehotline.org.
Domestic Violence: 1 in 4 will be victim of domestic violence in their lifetime. Power and control is at the center of domestic violence-the most dangerous time for victim is when they are leaving or have left the relationship.
Red Flags of Abuse:
*wants to move too quickly into the relationship.
*hits, slaps, punches, pushes or uses threats.
*sabotages job or controls all the money.
*excessively jealous
*criticizes, makes derogatory comments or places blame.
*withholds medical treatment or medication.
*threatens to reveal your HIV status.
*deceptive or overly charming.
*controls your birth control and condoms.
*uses technology to track you, views your email and social media.
*uses your immigration status to keep you in the relationship.
Your health is important!
*take time to get to know a potential partner.
*practice safe sex.
*understand state HIV disclosure laws.
*be aware of ‘red flags’ in relationships.
*get tested for HIV-it’s safe and confidential.
*talk to your kids about safe, healthy relationships.
*see a physician, get a complete exam once a year.
Plan for your health & safety:
Abusive relationships:
*identify and locate safe areas/exits in your home.
*if possible, have a phone accessible at all times-memorize emergency numbers/contacts numbers.
*keep copies of important documents-social security card, birth certificate and insurance policies.
*keep record of abusive incidents.
*create a safety plan with your children-who to call, where to go etc.
*come up with a back up safety plan in case your abuser discovers your plan.
HIV/AIDS:
*get tested/know your status.
*seek out treatment options.
*contact your local HIV/AIDS program for resources.
*keep medication in a safe and secure place.
Community Resources:
NNEDV: National Network to End Domestic Violence
1325 Massachusetts Avenue NW, 7th Floor
Washington DC 20036
Phone: (202) 543-5566
Fax: (202) 543-5626
National Domestic Violence Hotline:
1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
TTY: 1-800-787-3224
National Sexual Assault Hotline:
1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Teen Dating Hotline:
1-866-331-9474
National HIV Hotline:
1-800-CDC-HOTLINE (232-4636)
Locate HIV Testing Sites:
Disclaimer: this information is taken directly from the pamphlet from the National Network to End Domestic Violence. I have not used the service before so I have no opinion either yes or no to the program. Please call them or email them for more information.
If you feel you are being abused, please call the above number! Good Luck!
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