Category: Sex & Pregnancy

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).

Can You Get Your Period While Pregnant?

Posted on by Nyeleti Maluleka

Can You Get Your Period While Pregnant?

Hi Chomas! Have you ever wonder if you can get your period while pregnant or even heard people say they didn’t know they were actually pregnant because they were still getting their period. The simple answer to this complex question is – nope!

When you’re pregnant, your body is creating a new life and one of the biggest changes is that your period stops. This is because your body is focused on supporting the baby, not shedding the lining of your uterus (which is what happens during your period).

But what about the bleeding?

Sometimes, girls might see a little bit of blood or spotting when they’re pregnant. This can be scary, but it doesn’t always mean something is wrong. Here are a few reasons why you might bleed:

  • Implantation bleeding: This is when the fertilized egg sticks to the lining of your uterus. It’s usually a small amount of light pink or brown spotting.
  • Miscarriage: Sadly, sometimes pregnancies end early in a miscarriage. This can cause bleeding.
  • Ectopic pregnancy: This is when the fertilized egg implants somewhere other than the uterus. It can cause bleeding and is a serious condition.
  • Other problems: There are other reasons for bleeding during pregnancy, like infections or placenta problems.

It’s super important to tell your healthcare provider if you’re bleeding while you think you might be pregnant (or if you know you are). They can help you figure out what’s going on and make sure you’re okay.

Remember: If you think you might be pregnant, take a pregnancy test first. But the best way to know for sure is to talk to a healthcare provider.

Do you have any other questions about pregnancy or periods?

Reach out to me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a 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)

How To Deal With Sexual Pressure

Posted on by admin

Good relationships are based on trust and mutual agreements. Feeling like you must have sex with your partner when you don’t want to, can have a great impact on you. Sometimes you wind up having sex with your partner to protect their feelings while neglecting your own. No one has the right to pressure you to have sex with them, even if you are dating.

What does sexual pressure look like?

This is when someone tries to take control, exploit, or influence your feelings, or thoughts into having sex with them, this can also be in a form of manipulation. An example would be your partner saying that you must have sex with them because you’re dating, even though you don’t want to. You then end up doing it just to please them.

Things you can do:

List your boundaries:

You need to be assertive when you feel pressured to have sex. Remind yourself that you have every right to say no and that there’s nothing wrong with that. What you want matters just as much as what your partner wants.

Seek out people who respect you:

Love and relationships aren’t about forcing people to do things they don’t want. One of the ways to ensure that you’re valued and not pressured to have sex is by being around people who respect your decisions.

Exercise your right to say “no!” 

A practical way to keep reinforcing your belief is exercising your right to say no. Know what your needs are, and what you want. Remind yourself that you don’t owe anyone anything.

Remember Choma, it’s your body and you don’t ever have to do anything you don’t want to do. Sex is not an obligation; therefore, it has to be on your terms.

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).

Is Postnatal Care Really Important?

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Postnatal care, also known as postpartum care, refers to the medical and emotional support provided to a woman after childbirth. This period is crucial for new moms as it plays an important role in supporting their physical and emotional well-being after childbirth. Here are some key reasons why post-natal care is important:

  1. Physical Recovery:

Childbirth is a significant physical event, and the body undergoes various changes during and after the process. Post-natal care focuses on aiding the body’s recovery, including healing from any childbirth-related injuries, stitches, or caesarean sections.

  1. Preventing Complications:

Proper post-natal care helps in identifying and addressing any potential complications early on. This includes monitoring for signs of infections, managing postpartum bleeding, and ensuring that any healing incisions are cared for appropriately.

  1. Emotional Well-being:

The postpartum period often brings a range of emotions, from joy and fulfilment to stress and fatigue. Post-natal care addresses the emotional well-being of new moms, providing support, guidance, and resources to cope with the emotional challenges that may arise.

  1. Bonding with the Baby:

Post-natal care encourages and facilitates bonding between the new mom and her baby. This bonding is crucial for the emotional development of both the mother and the infant and establishes the foundation for a healthy parent-child relationship.

  1. Nutritional Support:

Adequate nutrition is essential for a new mom’s recovery and for the production of breast milk. Post-natal care includes guidance on maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and taking necessary supplements to support the nutritional needs of both the mother and the baby.

  1. Monitoring Postpartum Health:

Post-natal care involves regular check-ups to monitor the mother’s health. Healthcare providers assess blood pressure, check for signs of postpartum depression, and address any concerns related to physical or mental well-being.

  1. Family Planning:

Post-natal care provides an opportunity to discuss family planning options and birth control methods. This allows new parents to make informed decisions about their family’s future.

  1. Promoting Self-Care:

New moms often put the needs of their babies before their own. Post-natal care emphasizes the importance of self-care, encouraging mothers to prioritize their physical and mental well-being. This includes getting enough rest, seeking support, and taking breaks when needed.

In summary, post-natal care is a comprehensive approach that addresses the holistic needs of new mothers, ensuring a smooth transition into motherhood and promoting the health and happiness of both mom and baby.

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).

All You Need To Know About Pregnancy Awareness Week

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Pregnancy Awareness Week is dedicated to promoting awareness and providing education about pregnancy-related issues. This annual event is typically designed to empower and inform parents-to-be and the general public about all things pregnancy – ante-natal care, childbirth and post-natal care.

What’s the point of Pregnancy Awareness Week?

  1. Education and Empowerment:

The main goal is to educate and empower people, especially parents, with valuable information about pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood.

  1. Health Promotion:

Pregnancy Awareness Week aims to promote maternal and foetal health by emphasizing the importance of proper prenatal care, healthy lifestyle choices, and early detection of potential issues.

When is Pregnancy Awareness Week?

Pregnancy Awareness Week is typically observed annually. Although the time varies yearly, it will be observed from the 10th to the 16th of February 2024. 

What information is shared during Pregnancy Awareness Week?

  • Prenatal Care: Information about the importance of regular prenatal check-ups, proper nutrition, and overall well-being during pregnancy.
  • Childbirth Education: Discussions on different childbirth options, birthing plans, and strategies for a positive birthing experience.
  • Postnatal Care: Providing guidance on postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, and the emotional well-being of new mothers.
  • Family Planning: Addressing family planning and contraception options for individuals and couples.
  • Encouraging Informed Decisions: Pregnancy Awareness Week encourages individuals to make informed decisions about their pregnancy journey, fostering a sense of empowerment and confidence.

Pregnancy Awareness Week serves as an important platform to celebrate the journey of parenthood, educate individuals about the various aspects of pregnancy, and promote overall maternal and child well-being. It encourages a supportive and informed community, promoting positive pregnancy experiences and healthier outcomes for mothers and babies.

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).

How To Have Control Over Your Sexual Decisions

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When making decisions around sex, it’s important that you feel that they are the right ones for you. Sex should be a positive and enjoyable experience because it involves your body and your emotions and if you make the wrong decisions around it, it can have a negative impact on your life and health. Here’s what you should know:

Substance and alcohol abuse

Alcohol and other substances can affect the decisions you make about sex. Research shows that when people are intoxicated, they make decisions around sex which they would not normally make if they were sober.

Staying safe

If you’re having a night out and think you might have sex with someone, it’s important to decide beforehand what you want to do. Once you have made that decision, you need to stick to it. If you think you might have unprotected sex once you have been drinking or taking drugs, consider not doing so. This will help you have power in your decision-making.

Negotiating safe sex

If you want to practise safe sex, here’s what you can do:

  • Make sure you have a supply of condoms always available. Condoms offer dual protection from unwanted pregnancy, HIV and other STIs.
  • Be clear that you want to use a condom and if your partner disagrees, you can decide not to have sex.

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).

How To Navigate Life After Teenage Pregnancy

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Becoming a teenage mom is a huge deal. This transition can rock your world upside down. You might have to navigate extra challenges, like trying to finish school and adapting to being a mom. You might also feel judged for being a teenage mom or overwhelmed by the responsibility of raising a child. So how do you navigate life as a teenage mom? Here are some ways to:

Don’t lose focus on your dreams.

Having a baby early in life doesn’t mean that you must lose track of your own passions and dreams. If you have a plan to go back to school, do it. Knowing your little one is watching you reach for the stars is going to be great motivation for you.

Look after yourself.

You’re the most important part of your child’s life. Sometimes taking care of a baby might make you forget to take care of yourself, but looking after yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally will help your child grow and thrive just as much as you.

Take care of your mental health.

Your emotional and mental health is important too. Remember that when you are stressed, you might have challenges looking after your baby. Getting counselling can help you adjust to your new mom role.

Surround yourself with a good support system.

Talk to your loved ones about how you’re feeling. If you’re worried about anything and need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to them for support.

Remember the old saying about how it takes a village to raise a child? You don’t have to do this alone, ask for help when you need it.

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).

How To Deal With Pregnancy Termination Stigma

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Stigma is when someone views you in a negative way because of who you are, your position, or the decisions you’ve made. Unfortunately, people who have decided to terminate often face social stigma and discrimination. This experience can make their problems worse, making it harder to confide in people and heal. Here’s how you can cope with termination stigma.

Don’t create self-doubt and shame.

Stigma doesn’t just come from others. You can mistakenly believe that your decision is a sign of personal weakness.  Seeking counselling, educating yourself about your options, and connecting with others who have decided to do the same can help you gain self-esteem and overcome self-judgment.

Don’t isolate yourself.

If you’ve terminated, you may be hesitant to tell anyone about it, including your family and friends. Reach out to people you trust for the compassion, support, and understanding you need.

Speak out against stigma.

Consider expressing your opinions whether it be online or offline. It can help give others the courage to educate the public about termination.

Get Help.

You may be reluctant to admit you need help when you are going through termination grief. Don’t let the fear of being labelled prevent you from seeking help. Help can provide relief by identifying what’s wrong and reducing symptoms that interfere with your work and personal life.

Remember others’ judgments almost always stem from a lack of understanding. Learning to accept your personal decisions and recognize what you need to do to get through them, seeking support, and helping educate others can make a big difference.

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