Category: Health

Navigating Sexual Health: What Queer Men Should Know

Posted on by Nyeleti Maluleka

Sexual health can be tricky to talk about, especially for queer men who often face unique challenges. From stigma to access to care, let’s dive into the real talk about sexual health and how to navigate it like a pro.

The Struggle is Real: Stigma and Discrimination

  • Fear of Being Judged: It’s not uncommon for queer men to feel hesitant about seeking healthcare. The fear of judgment or discrimination can be a major barrier.
  • Limited Knowledge: Sadly, some healthcare providers don’t have the right training to address the specific needs of LGBTQ+ people, making the experience uncomfortable or unhelpful.

Access to Care: A Tough Journey

  • Medical Aid Gaps: Some medical aid plans don’t cover the sexual health services queer men need. That can be super frustrating.
  • Finding the Right Doctor: Not every healthcare provider is LGBTQ+ affirming, and in some areas, finding one can be a real mission.
  • Financial Struggles: Let’s face it, healthcare can be expensive, and this can prevent many from getting the care they need.

Busting Myths: What You Need to Know

  • HIV/AIDS is Not the Only Issue: While HIV/AIDS is a big concern, queer men are also at risk for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like syphilis, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia.
  • Not All Queer Men Are High-Risk: Risk levels depend on your sexual practices, number of partners, and protection use – it’s not one-size-fits-all.
  • PrEP Isn’t Just for HIV-Negative Guys: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a powerful tool for both HIV-negative and positive men to manage HIV risks.

Level Up Your Sexual Health

  • Find an LGBTQ+ Affirming Doctor: Look for healthcare providers who understand and support LGBTQ+ patients.
  • Get Educated: Stay informed on STIs, HIV prevention, and other sexual health matters. Knowledge is power!
  • Routine Check-ups: Keep up with your regular healthcare visits. Prevention is key.
  • Get Tested Regularly: If you’re sexually active, getting tested for STIs should be a regular part of your routine.
  • PrEP Can Help: If you’re at high risk for HIV, ask your doctor about starting PrEP.
  • Open Up: Have honest conversations with your sexual partners about your sexual health and preferences.

Your Health, Your Future

By tackling these challenges head-on and taking steps to safeguard their sexual health, queer men can live healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Need some advice ? you can hit me up on Ask Choma, or send me a Facebook message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp message (071 172 3657).

Men On Birth Control? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Posted on by Nyeleti Maluleka

Sho Gent! Have you ever wondered if men can take birth control?

The short answer is: not just yet, but scientists are getting closer! Just like women have multiple options to prevent pregnancy, researchers are working hard to develop solutions for men too. Let’s dive into some of the ideas they’re exploring to make male birth control a reality.

Hormonal Birth Control for Men

Researchers are investigating how hormones can play a role in male birth control, just like they do for women.

  • Testosterone: This is the main male hormone. Scientists are figuring out how to use it to stop sperm production while keeping everything else in balance temporarily.
  • Progestin: You might know this as a female hormone, but it can also prevent sperm production. However, it needs to be combined with testosterone so men don’t experience hormonal imbalances.

Non-Hormonal Birth Control Options

Apart from hormones, researchers are also exploring non-hormonal ways to prevent pregnancy.

  • Sperm Blockers: These are chemicals designed to stop sperm from reaching the egg by killing or disabling them.
  • Vas Deferens Blockage: This method is like a vasectomy (a procedure that blocks the tubes that carry sperm), but with a twist—it could be reversible! So, if a guy changes his mind in the future, there’s a possibility to unblock the tubes.

Why is it Taking So Long?

Creating male birth control isn’t as simple as it sounds. Here’s why it’s taking longer than expected:

  • Side Effects: Just like any new medication, there’s a need to ensure it’s safe. Scientists are working to make sure that male birth control methods don’t cause serious side effects.
  • Acceptance: Some men might be hesitant to try birth control, especially when it involves hormones. It’s not just about finding a solution; it’s also about making it socially acceptable.
  • Funding: Research costs money, and right now, there’s more funding for female birth control than for male options.

Would You Try Male Birth Control?

So, gents, what are your thoughts? If male birth control becomes available, do you think more guys will step up and take responsibility? Would you or someone you know be willing to try it? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Need advice or help? you can contact me here on Ask Choma, or send me a Facebook message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp message (071 172 3657).

The Impact of Alcohol Abuse

Posted on by Nyeleti Maluleka

Hey, Chomas! Let’s talk about something serious: the risks of drinking too much alcohol. While it’s okay to enjoy a drink occasionally, excessive alcohol consumption can have significant negative consequences.

What is Alcohol Abuse?

Alcohol abuse is a pattern of drinking that negatively affects your daily life. It’s not just about physical addiction; it’s about how much alcohol controls your behaviour and decisions. Signs of alcohol abuse include neglecting responsibilities, getting into legal or social trouble, and drinking in dangerous situations.

Short-Term Risks

Even occasional excessive drinking can have harmful effects. Alcohol can impair your judgment, coordination, and decision-making abilities. This can lead to accidents, injuries, risky sexual behaviour, and violence. Alcohol can also cause memory blackouts, which can have serious consequences.

Long-Term Consequences

Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to severe health problems. It can damage your liver, heart, and brain. Alcohol can also contribute to mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. Additionally, excessive drinking can strain your relationships and lead to social and legal difficulties.

The Impact on Your Relationships

Excessive drinking can strain your relationships with friends, family, and loved ones. It can lead to arguments, misunderstandings, and even violence. Alcohol can also cause financial problems, as it can lead to excessive spending and job loss.

The Importance of Moderation

It’s important to drink alcohol responsibly and in moderation. This means limiting your intake and avoiding drinking when you’re driving, operating machinery, or taking medications that can interact with alcohol. If you’re struggling with alcohol abuse, it’s important to seek help. There are many resources available, including support groups, counselling, and treatment programs.

Remember, your health and well-being are important. If you or someone you know is abusing alcohol don’t be afraid to reach out Choma.

Need advice or help,? you can contact me here on Ask Choma, or send me a Facebook message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp message (071 172 3657).

‘Flu season – what should you be doing?

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

Hi Chomas,

The flu or influenza, is a common but serious illness that can make you feel miserable. If you find yourself sniffling, coughing, and aching, it’s important to know how to take care of yourself and get back on your feet. Here’s a few tips to help you treat the flu.

Recognizing Flu Symptoms

Common flu symptoms include:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/chills
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue (tiredness)

 

Steps to Treat the Flu

Rest

One of the best things you can do for your body when you have the flu is to rest. Your body needs energy to fight off the virus, so make sure to get plenty of sleep and take it easy.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of fluids like water and herbal teas. Staying hydrated helps your body fight the infection and eases symptoms like sore throat and congestion.

Eat Nourishing Foods

Even if you don’t have much of an appetite, try to eat small, nutritious meals. Foods like soups, fruits, and vegetables can provide essential nutrients that help your body recover..

Ease Congestion

To relieve nasal congestion, you can use saline nasal sprays, steam inhalation, or a humidifier in your room. Taking a hot shower can also help clear your nasal passages.

Soothe a Sore Throat

Gargling with warm salt water, drinking warm liquids, or sucking on throat lozenges can help soothe a sore throat. Honey and lemon in hot water can also be very soothing.

Stay Home and Avoid Spreading the Flu

If you have the flu, it’s important to stay home from school and other activities to prevent spreading the virus to others. The flu is highly contagious, especially in the first few days of illness.

Follow Your healthcare providers Advice

If your symptoms are severe or you have any underlying health conditions, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. They can provide specific guidance and may prescribe antiviral medications if necessary.

Your health is important, and taking the right steps to treat the flu can make a big difference in how quickly you recover. Remember to rest, stay hydrated, and follow the tips above to ease your symptoms and get back to feeling your best.

Remember if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

The Role of Companies in Employee Wellness

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

Hey Choma,

We’ve previously spoken about corporate wellness week from the employees’ side, what you could do at the workplace to take care of your mental health – “tips on how you can keep mentally healthy at work”.

Now let’s look at what is their responsibility to employee wellness!

Why corporate wellness week?

Corporate wellness week was established for companies to look at the holistic wellness of their employees. Acknowledging that healthy individuals, not only increase productivity and the overall success of the company but are more determined to work because of good morale.

What are the 4 pillars of holistic wellness?

1. Physical Wellness – companies should encourage healthy eating habits, exercise and regular health check-ups. They can contribute to this by bringing health practitioners on-site for general health check-ups or health screenings, fitness instructors to show workout options and start a work-out challenge with a reward. Include nutritionists, serve food on the day to motivate staff healthy eating habits, provide snacks in the office, etc.

2. Mental Wellness – Bring a mental health practitioner to speak on mental health issues including stress management, include ways to be mindful to staff and teach staff and management on how to be conversant on their issues and treatment thereof. Provide on-site massages and resources for staff post the wellness day.

3. Emotional Wellness – Educate the staff on a positive work-life balance, encourage self-care; skills to build resilience and educate them on emotional intelligence.

4. Social Wellness – Promote positive interactions within the workplace, encouraging teamwork, positive communication and creating an inclusive working environment. Management can also organize a separate team-building exercise to promote the social wellness of its staff.

Remember, this shouldn’t just be a one-week thing!

The best companies keep these things in mind year-round. They might offer flexible work hours to help with work-life balance or show appreciation for your hard work.

So next corporate wellness week, take advantage of what’s offered! It’s good for you and good for the company. After all, you deserve to feel good at work, too!

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

26th June 2024…Substance abuse awareness day!

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

Hey Chomas…

We have spoken so much about this topic before, from identifying when someone is abusing alcohol to how to speak to a friend about their substance use or abuse problem.

Let’s get back to basics.

What is the difference between substance use and abuse?

Using substances means drinking alcohol or smoking or injecting drugs, any form of intake that causes your mind to be disoriented, therefor causing your thinking and behavior to not function as per usual. This usually happens when there is a celebration or a so called ‘special occasion’, that some people may find it fitting to have one or two drinks to celebrate together.

Substance abuse however, is different. This is when the drinking or smoking is no longer a form of celebration but an over use of substances. A person may start drinking more regularly, either every weekend or every day and does not seem to have a limit, this is also known as addiction to substances. The substance starts controlling you.

What causes alcohol or drug abuse?

It could be anything from stress to mental health issues such as depression, as well as just learning to cope by consuming substances. In other cases, a person might start living a life of partying or hanging out with friends regularly, and start depending on alcohol to make them fun…this has also been known to be provoked by a low-self-esteem, when a person doesn’t feel good about themselves and relies on alcohol to make them more interesting…the feeling is always temporary and leads to further consumption of alcohol if we don’t learn to deal with our problems. Substance abuse has led to violence, abuse in the household, worse cases of mental health conditions and loss of loved ones and jobs, to say the least.

In this modern age, what qualifies as substances?

  • Nyaope, one of the cheapest forms of drugs in South Africa
  • Other drugs such as Crystal methampatime (known as meth or CAT); Crack Cocaine (known as coke) and Heroin (known as brown sugar)
  • Cannabis (marijuana, also known as weed, joint),
  • Alcohol
  • Cigarette and Hookah (also known as hubbly bubbly or oka pipe)

These are just some examples of well know substances, there are plenty more out there.

How do we prevent substance abuse?

The best way to prevent substance abuse is by not using the substances to start with. Regular use of any substance can lead to substance abuse. If one is disciplined enough, it will show through how frequently they consume and in the volume of the substance. For example, drinking alcohol once every Saturday or only once a month or only when there is a toast or one day celebration, and when starting to feel the effect of alcohol (also known as getting tipsy) knowing when to stop.

We also need to remember Choma, that substance abuse does not happen in a vacuum. There are usually other deep seated issues that might be leading us to use alcohol for example, as a coping mechanism. Understanding ourselves and our triggers is an important step in trying to prevent and address the issues we are struggling with and developing healthy coping mechanisms. Speaking to someone about our challenges is a good first step toward facing and addressing our issues so as not to use substances.

How do I get help for substance abuse?

There are organizations such as AA (Alcoholic Anonymous), the Department of Health’s alcohol line and SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) who are skilled in assisting with substance abuse. If you or a loved one needs assistance, check out the details below:

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

24/7 Hotline 0861 435 722

WhatsApp 0730212523

Department of Social Development Substance Abuse Helpline
0800 12 13 14
SMS 32312

South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)

Ke Moja Substance Abuse
087 163 2025

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

Why Going Offline is Good for You

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

In today’s digital age, it can be hard to disconnect from our phones. Between social media, online gaming, and streaming services, we’re constantly plugged in. While the internet offers a lot of benefits, taking time to go offline is good for your well-being. Here’s why unplugging can be so beneficial.

 

Improves Mental Health

Constant exposure to social media can lead to anxiety, depression, and feeling like you’re falling short. Taking breaks from the online world allows you to reset and reduce these negative emotions. Engaging in offline activities, such as reading a book or going for a walk, can help you relax and improve your mood.

 

Real-Life Connections

While online interactions are convenient, they can’t replace face-to-face connections. Spending time offline allows you to build stronger relationships with family and friends. It’s important to engage in conversations and activities that encourage deeper bonds and create lasting memories.

 

Productivity and Focus

Being constantly online can be distracting. Notifications, messages, and endless content can make it hard to concentrate on tasks. Going offline helps you focus better on your studies, hobbies, or any other activities. You’ll find that you can accomplish more in less time without the constant interruptions from your phone.

 

Physical Activity

Going offline gives you the opportunity to get up and move. Whether it’s playing a sport, going for a run, or even just taking a walk, physical activity is important for maintaining a healthy body and mind.

 

Better Sleep

Excessive screen time, especially before bed, can make it harder to fall asleep and affect the quality of your rest. Turning off your phone an hour before bedtime can help you sleep better and wake up feeling more refreshed.

 

Creativity

Taking time away from phone allows your mind to wander and explore new ideas. Offline activities like drawing, writing, or playing an instrument can boost your creativity. When you consume less content online, you’re free to create and imagine in ways you might not have otherwise.

 

Awareness and Presence

Being offline helps you be more present in the moment. It allows you to fully experience and appreciate your surroundings without the distraction of digital devices. Mindfulness, or being aware of the present, has been shown to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

 

Going offline might seem difficult at first, but the benefits are well worth it. By taking regular breaks from the digital world, you can improve your mental and physical health, build stronger relationships, and enjoy a more balanced life. So, take a step back, unplug, and see how going offline can make a positive difference in your life.

 

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me on Facebook Message,  Instagram message,  Twitter DM, or WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)

Adolescent and Youth Friendly Services!

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

As a young person, why do I need to go to government clinics or hospitals when I fear that I will get shouted at or judged?

…because you have a right to get health services, allowed to access these services and never be turned back.

In the past, a lot of young people were afraid to go to our government clinics because they complained about bad services and that they were constantly judged for their health queries. This stopped them from going to seek healthcare services, thus leaving themselves at risk of being sick, infected or havingtheir conditions worsen.

In order to respond to the needs of young people, the Department of Health came up with the solution that would help with this problem…to train their staff and companies working with young people to know how to provide services to young people in a way that would make them feel less judged and more welcome at the health facilities. These are called Adolescent and Youth Friendly Services (AYFS), meant for all young people to understand their right to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. There is a list of standards that the health facilities must reach, in order to be called youth friendly.

What do youth friendly services include?

  • Education on family planning, STIs including HIV
  • Prevention of unplanned pregnancies, provision of contraceptives including condoms
  • HIV testing services
  • Screening for STIs and treatment of these STIs
  • Prevention of HIV for HIV negative clients, PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis – this is pilltaken once a day to prevent HIV infection)
  • Treatment of HIV positive clients, provision of ARVs (Antiretrovirals pills) and support
  • Screening for GBV (Gender Based Violence) and referrals thereof
  • Treatment for clients who have been exposed to the risk of acquiring HIV (PEP – Post-exposure Prophylaxes). For example, a person who has gone through rape or experienced a condom burst.
  • Other general health checks, conditions and health concerns and needs
  • Information on SRHR and other illnesses

AYFS clinics and hospitals usually try to adjust their facility times to suit young people and to also have specific areas in the facility to attend to young people where they are most comfortable.

Just keep in mind that not all health facilities have reached the required level of to qualify as youth friendly services but are a work in progress. Don’t ever let one bad service take away your right to receive health services.

You, Choma, have a RIGHT to good healthcare at our public health facilities…make use of it!

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me on Facebook Message,  Instagram message,  Twitter DM, or WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)

Let’s Talk About: Home remedies for terminating pregnancy.

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

Hey Chomas,

So, I’ve been getting a lot of questions around home remedies for terminating pregnancy (Abortion), especially on “does coke and disprin work for abortion”?

This is only one of the home remedies that young women have used to get rid of pregnancy and your Choma is here to get real with you about that!

Well… disprin for one is an aspirin, an over-the-counter medication which is usually taken for mild to moderate pain such as headaches, nerve pain and to also treat fever associated with colds and flu.

A person who’s pregnant is not advised to take anything more than a necessary panado, as it is risky to the pregnant woman and her baby.

What does a home remedy like disprin do to a pregnant woman, her fetus or unborn baby?

It induces the pregnancy…inducing means using a strategy to start a process of labour. So, that will basically cause the fetus or baby to ‘escape the womb’. Inducing labour is only supposed to be done by a health professional (doctor) as there is a risk to the unborn baby or mother or if at due time of labour, the baby needs to come out to stop it from losing its life. These safe strategies conducted by a doctor are proven methods which ensure that the mother and baby remain safe.

So, what is this big risk about inducing pregnancy with things like disprin?

It will not only induce the pregnancy but will cause a life threat to the pregnant mother. What will happen is that you can experience what is called a partial miscarriage or incomplete abortion, which means some fetal tissue will still be left in the womb of the woman (also known as kobo in Sesotho)…this can be fatal, meaning cause death, for the woman because of the unusual bleeding or high infection due to the fetal tissue. This can only be treated medically.

A high dosage of disprin may also cause liver or kidney disorders, even affect the gastrointestinal tract (a pathway where food enters and solid waste is released). In short Chomas, disprin and coke are NOT safe pregnancy termination methods.

Tip: Rather rely on contraceptives to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Use methods such as PrEP to prevent HIV and make sure you learn about your sexual health, so that you keep your body healthy and make better life choices.

Still got questions, feel free to send me a message.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)

Puberty: How to Treat Acne

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

Acne. It’s a word that can make any teenager cringe. But what exactly is acne? Why does it happen? And most importantly, how can you treat it and stay positive while dealing with it?

 

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It often causes pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads, and can appear on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders.

 

What Causes Acne?

Several factors can contribute to acne, including:

  • Hormones: During puberty, your body produces more hormones, which can lead to increased oil production.
  • Genetics: If your parents had acne, you may be more likely to develop it too.
  • Diet: eating junk food such cooldrink and chips often can cause acne, make sure that you always have a balanced diet.
  • Stress: Stress can trigger hormonal changes that may worsen acne.

 

How to Treat Acne

While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for acne, there are several things you can do to help manage it:

  • Cleanse Gently: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser twice a day to remove excess oil and dirt.
  • Avoid Harsh Products: Avoid using harsh scrubs or cleansers that can irritate your skin and make acne worse.
  • Use Non-Comedogenic Products: Look for skincare and makeup products labelled “non-comedogenic,” which means they won’t clog your pores.
  • Don’t Squeeze Pimples: It can lead to scarring and further inflammation.

 

Staying Positive with Acne

Dealing with acne can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Here are some tips for staying positive:

  • Focus on What You Can Control: While you can’t always control your acne, you can control how you take care of your skin and how you feel about yourself.
  • Practice Self-Care: Take time to do things that make you feel good, whether it’s exercising, reading, or spending time with friends.
  • Surround Yourself with Supportive People: Surround yourself with friends and family who lift you up and make you feel good about yourself.
  • Seek Professional Help if Needed: If acne is affecting your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help.

 

Remember, acne is temporary, and with the right care and mindset, you can manage it and maintain a positive outlook.

 

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)