PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medical treatment that helps prevent HIV infection. By taking a daily pill containing HIV medications, an HIV-negative individual can significantly reduce the risk of acquiring the virus upon exposure. PrEP is particularly effective for those at higher risk, including men who have sex with men (MSM), individuals with HIV-positive partners, or those engaging in activities with higher transmission risks, such as chemsex or needle-sharing.

When taken correctly (daily dosing), PrEP is over 99% effective. While it offers robust protection against HIV, it is crucial to combine PrEP with regular testing for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as it does not protect against them.

Although PrEP is a powerful tool against HIV, combining it with other methods enhances overall safety:

• Condoms: Also protect against other STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea.
• U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable): An HIV-positive person on effective treatment with undetectable viral levels cannot transmit HIV through sex.
• PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis): Used within 72 hours of potential HIV exposure to prevent the virus from taking hold.

Combining prevention strategies and having regular, open conversations with partners about health and risks are key to maintaining a safe and healthy sex life.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a retrovirus that targets the body’s immune system, specifically CD4 cells, which are essential for protecting the body against infections. HIV is transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. Common modes of transmission include:

• Unprotected sex with an HIV-positive individual.
• Sharing injection needles.
• Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy or breastfeeding (without treatment).

HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact, such as hugging or sharing food and drinks.

1. Acute Infection: Flu-like symptoms may appear 2–4 weeks after exposure (e.g., fever, fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes).
2. Chronic HIV Infection: The virus levels are low, but it gradually weakens the immune system. This stage can last for years without symptoms.
3. AIDS: Without treatment, HIV progresses to AIDS, severely damaging the immune system and increasing susceptibility to opportunistic infections like pneumonia and tuberculosis.

• Testing: HIV is diagnosed through blood tests or rapid tests that detect antibodies to the virus.
• Treatment: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) suppresses viral levels, prevents immune system damage, and eliminates the risk of transmission (U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable).

• Condoms: Highly effective protection during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
• PrEP: A daily medication for people without HIV to prevent infection.
• PEP: Emergency treatment that must be started within 72 hours after potential exposure.
• Testing During Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals with HIV can prevent virus transmission to their child with proper treatment.

With appropriate treatment, living with HIV today means leading a long, healthy life without transmitting the virus during unprotected sex.

Gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia are common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can have serious consequences if left untreated. Therefore, they are included under special protective rules in the Swedish Communicable Diseases Act (2004:168). This law mandates that individuals diagnosed with any of these infections must participate in contact tracing to prevent further transmission.

Contact tracing involves identifying and notifying individuals who may have been exposed to an STI by someone who has been diagnosed. The main goals are to break the chain of transmission, reduce the spread, and facilitate early diagnosis and treatment.
This process typically includes:

• The diagnosed person providing information about past and current sexual partners.
• Healthcare professionals assisting in contacting these individuals so they can get tested and, if necessary, treated.

Contact tracing is conducted under strict confidentiality. Health personnel may notify contacts without disclosing the identity of the source. This ensures privacy and encourages participation.

1. Center for Sexual Health: Claesgatan 7, Malmö
2. Youth Clinics: (for ages 20-25)
3. Specialized Clinics in Lund, Helsingborg and Kristianstad

Residents of Skåne can order free home tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea through 1177.se.

Prioritize your sexual health by staying informed, practicing safe sex, and getting tested regularly!

Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus, with type 1 (HSV-1) mainly affecting the mouth and type 2 (HSV-2) the genitals. Both can be transmitted to any area through contact with sores or blisters.

• Painful blisters or sores around the mouth, genitals, or anus
• Recurring outbreaks

While there’s no cure, antiviral medications can reduce outbreak frequency and severity.

HPV is a group of viruses transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, oral sex, and skin-to-skin contact. Some types cause genital warts, while others may lead to cancers like cervical cancer.

• Often asymptomatic
• Genital warts caused by HPV types 6 and 11

Vaccines protect against types 16 and 18 (cancer-causing) and 6 and 11 (warts). Vaccination is included in the national program for children and is available for adults for a fee.

Syphilis is caused by bacteria and spreads through direct contact with sores, typically during anal, vaginal, or oral sex. The incubation period ranges from 10 to 90 days, averaging three weeks.

1. Primary Syphilis (2-8 weeks): A sore develops at the infection site, often painless and healing within six to eight weeks.
2. Secondary Syphilis (3-6 weeks later): Rash on the body, hands, or feet; fever; fatigue; headache. Symptoms subside even without treatment.
3. Tertiary Syphilis (years later): Headache, fatigue, nausea, and nerve pain, sometimes decades after initial infection.

Testing involves blood samples or swabs from sores. Antibiotics, often given as injections, are used for treatment. After early-stage syphilis treatment, regular follow-ups are required.

• Dermatology Clinic, Center for Sexual Health in Malmö
  Location: Claesgatan 7, Malmö
  Services: Offers testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and counseling on sexual health. Testing for diseases covered under Sweden’s Communicable Diseases Act is free for everyone.
• Youth Clinic (for ages 20–25)
  Location: Kattsundsgatan 21, Malmö
  Services: Tailored to individuals under 23 years old, providing free testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
• Dermatology Clinic for Genital Diseases in Lund
  Location: Skåne University Hospital
  Services: Provides STI testing and sexual health counseling. Testing for diseases under the Communicable Diseases Act is free.
• Dermatology Clinic for Sexual Health in Helsingborg
  Location: Helsingborg Hospital
  Services: Offers testing and treatment for various STIs, including HIV and chlamydia.
• Noaks Ark Mosaik in Malmö
  Services: Specializes in HIV testing and provides support related to HIV and other STIs.

Gonorrhea, caused by bacteria, spreads via vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can also be transmitted through fingers or sex toys. The incubation period is short, with symptoms typically appearing within two to seven days after exposure. However, many infected individuals show no symptoms, making regular testing vital for sexually active individuals.

• Pain or burning during urination
• Yellow-green discharge from the penis, anus, or vagina
• Testicular pain
• Less common: fever and lower abdominal pain

Gonorrhea is treated with antibiotics, which are always free of charge. Resistance to antibiotics has become an increasing problem. Completing the prescribed treatment is critical to prevent reinfection and antibiotic resistance.

• Dermatology Clinic, Center for Sexual Health in Malmö
  Location: Claesgatan 7, Malmö
  Services: Offers testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and counseling on sexual health. Testing for diseases covered under Sweden’s Communicable Diseases Act is free for everyone.
• Youth Clinic (for ages 20–25)
  Location: Kattsundsgatan 21, Malmö
  Services: Tailored to individuals under 23 years old, providing free testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
• Dermatology Clinic for Genital Diseases in Lund
  Location: Skåne University Hospital
  Services: Provides STI testing and sexual health counseling. Testing for diseases under the Communicable Diseases Act is free.
• Dermatology Clinic for Sexual Health in Helsingborg
  Location: Helsingborg Hospital
  Services: Offers testing and treatment for various STIs, including HIV and chlamydia.
• Noaks Ark Mosaik in Malmö
  Services: Specializes in HIV testing and provides support related to HIV and other STIs.

Addiction is now recognized as a disease that significantly impacts brain function. It is characterized not only by a compulsion to use a substance or engage in certain behaviors but also by chronic changes to the brain’s reward system. These changes impair an individual’s ability to control impulses and make decisions, making it challenging to stop despite negative consequences.

• Strong desire or compulsion to use a substance.
• Impaired ability to control consumption.
• Continued use despite harmful effects.
• Prioritizing substance use over other responsibilities.
• Increased tolerance levels.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Addiction often arises from a mix of genetic vulnerability, environmental factors, and exposure to substances or behaviors that stimulate the brain’s reward system. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter that regulates pleasure and reward, plays a central role. Repeated exposure to substances or behaviors leads the brain to adapt, requiring larger quantities to achieve the same effect.

Attachment theory, introduced by John Bowlby, explains how early relationships shape emotional regulation and stress management. A secure attachment fosters resilience, while insecure attachments, such as avoidant or ambivalent types, may increase the likelihood of turning to external coping mechanisms, including substance use. Individuals with insecure attachments may struggle with trust and emotional regulation, increasing vulnerability to addiction.

Childhood trauma, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors all contribute to addiction risk. Unaddressed emotional distress and a lack of healthy coping mechanisms often lead individuals to seek relief through substances or risky behaviors. Early intervention and comprehensive treatment addressing both trauma and addiction can improve outcomes.

AA (Alcoholics Anonymous)
Looking for support to manage alcohol addiction? AA holds regular meetings in Malmö and other locations across Skåne. Their 12-step program offers guidance and support for living sober alongside others with shared experiences.
Website: www.aa.se

NA (Narcotics Anonymous)
Struggling with drug addiction? NA hosts meetings where you can connect with others who have faced similar challenges. Together, participants share experiences and motivate one another on their recovery journey.
Website: www.na.org

Maria Malmö
This service supports young people up to 25 years old dealing with alcohol or drug problems. They provide advice and assistance to both youths and their families.
Phone: +46 40-33 71 70

AVB Rehab
Structured outpatient treatment for alcohol, drug, and gambling addiction.
Phone: +46 40-43 77 67
Website: www.avbrehab.com

• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – The brain’s response to addiction.
• American Psychiatric Association – DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for addiction and substance use disorders.
• ICD-10 World Health Organization (WHO) – Diagnostic criteria for addiction (ICD-10).
• Public Health Agency of Sweden (Folkhälsomyndigheten) – Information about risky use, substance abuse, and addiction in Sweden.
• Bowlby, J. (1988). A Secure Base: Clinical Applications of Attachment Theory.
• Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma.
• Alcoholics Anonymous Sweden – AA.
• Narcotics Anonymous – NA.
• Maria Malmö – Local support services for young individuals with substance use issues.
• Volkow, N. D., Koob, G. F., & McLellan, A. T. (2016). Neurobiological Advances from the Brain Disease Model of Addiction, New England Journal of Medicine.