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AIDS, Abuse, Abortion
AIDS
If you’ve heard of the term AIDS, it’s actually the short form for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. AIDS is the disease caused by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus).
Basically, AIDS is the term for the disease when a person’s immune system becomes so badly damaged that it can’t protect their body from infections any more. The reason this is so serious is because there is no cure and your body is unable to protect itself properly. You can reduce the risk of contracting HIV, a blood and semen based virus by always using a condom. You can find out more about HIV here.
ABUSE
Abuse can mean being treated in a way that is harmful, cruel or violent.
It can be physical, verbal or a combination of both. Pushing, hitting or touching someone in a way they did not consent to is physical abuse. Name-calling, threats and bullying are types of verbal abuse – taking this type of action against another person is never ok.
If you’ve heard someone say they were sexually abused it means they were treated sexually in a way they didn’t consent to, or say it was ok. No matter the circumstances, abuse is never acceptable. Just because you’re in a relationship with someone doesn’t make any of these behaviours acceptable.
If you or someone you know needs help or support, call the National Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence hotline on 1800 737 732 anytime day or night – they will be able to support you.
ABORTION
An abortion, sometimes called a termination, is a medical procedure women can have to end a pregnancy.
There are many different reasons someone might have an abortion, and there is no right or wrong answer. Don’t be afraid to talk with a trusted adult if you’re considering your options. This is a big decision, and something you shouldn’t ignore.
If you take the morning after pill within 72 hours after sex (vaginal) you can also reduce the chances of an unwanted pregnancy. Speak to your doctor or your local pharmacy.
