Miss World Rolene Strauss opens up about using HIV treatment
The former Miss World recently shared her personal story on social media.
Once one of the scariest viruses known to humanity, HIV has become a manageable virus with many ways to prevent infection and its spread.
However, there is still a lot of social stigma around the virus, and for those being diagnosed or living with HIV, it remains a difficult thing to adjust to.
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In a recent Instagram post, former Miss World Rolene Strauss shared a deeply personal story about coming in contact with the virus.
"After the birth of our first son back in 2017, I was completing my medical studies and was exposed to HIV while treating a patient at a hospital during my call one evening," she wrote.
Strauss recalled that she was breastfeeding at the time and had to go on post-exposure prophylaxis.
Post-exposure prophylaxis or PEP means taking HIV medicines within 72 hours (3 days) after a possible exposure to HIV to prevent HIV.
The word "prophylaxis" means to prevent or control the spread of an infection or disease.
She confessed that even as a doctor, she had many questions running through her head regarding the exposure and treatment.
As part of her Instagram post, she also wrote about her involvement with the #ForeverWena campaign, hoping to educate her followers about HIV and sexual health.
#ForeverWena is a support system and info hub that assists people in taking charge of their sexual health.
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"Whatever your preferences, we're here to back you up - no strings attached, just a helping hand on the journey towards a safer and healthier you," states the official website.
"As a mother, I understand the crucial link between maternal and child health," wrote Strauss.
"Protecting yourself is paramount in motherhood."
If you have any HIV-related questions, reach out to the ForeverWena WhatsApp chatbot here: +27 84 952 6152.
Because in the realm of motherhood, knowledge truly is power, and together, we can ensure a future where every child is born into a world of health and possibility.
Sources:
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Image: Instagram/ Rolene Strauss