Yes, that's true. In most cases, antibodies will show up within three months, but it is recommended to wait six months after possible exposure to get a completely accurate result. Tests are extremely accurate, so if you've been tested after six months and have a negative result, you should not be worried. Health clinics offer free HIV testing, so does Planned Parenthood. If you feel that you have been at risk of contracting HIV, by all means, go out and get tested.

If you feel you are at risk of exposure, get tested after six months to be safe. Always take precautions to protect yourself, whether sexually or otherwise. Condoms are very effective at preventing HIV transmission via vaginal, anal and oral sex. It is also recommended that IV drug users never share needles with others. These are the reasons HIV/AIDS education is imperative. There are lots of useful sites online.

Here's my attempt at translating from Farsi to English:

-zesht: generally means "ugly," or depending on the context, can mean wrong or inappropriate (as the person below said):

e.g: oon sag zesht-eh: that dog is ugly
oon kareh zeshti bood: that was inappropriate.

-khoobi?: means, "are you well?"

-khoobi dareh?: literal translation is "is there any good in it?" but really, it just means, "is it worth it?"

-vakhti goft: when he/she said.

-dokhtar: girl

- ye rooz ageh meetooni zang bezan, basheh?:
means, "call me one day if you can, okay?"

I was actually in Pamplona several years ago during the first night of the week-long Running of the Bulls. The night before was absolute madness...everybody was out in the streets dancing and having a good time. Lots and lots of people were drunk, many of whom literally passed out by the end of the night. The party did not end at all...people did not go to sleep until afternoon or so. I actually ended up taking a nap at a crowded bar. The next morning, which was the first day of San Fermin, my friends and I had arrived so late the there was a sea of people waiting to see the bulls. All we could see were people crowding around- some actually tried climbing buildings to see, but were usually stopped by the guards. There was no way for us to see the bulls since we had gotten there late and the crowd was too large (we gave up and went to a cafe instead). So, I cannot describe what it was like, expect that it was EXTREMELY crowded. There is a week-long, non-stop party in the streets, bars, clubs, homes, etc., etc..lots of fun. I would say even two days of that is more than enough. If you ever go, and really want a chance to see the bull run, make sure you are lined up in the street well in advance. If it starts around 9 AM, you should stand outside at 8 or sooner- otherwise far too many people will block your view.

Okay, after this long answer, I just realized you asked about anyone having actually run with the bulls....oops. No, I have not (obviously), but there you go, that's an outside perspective about actually being there (well, somewhat). Anyway, I heard it's dangerous- news reports that week mentioned people being injured (usually running while drunk).

I wouldn't recommend piercing your own ears, especially if you haven't done so already. You would be better of going to Claire's or something- they pierce ears for free (not including the price of the earings). If you attempt to do it on your own, you'll risk a couple things: a)infection, or
b)possibly being too nervous to do a good job.
It's better to shop around and go to a professional, than to attempt to do it yourself. They are trained, and as you know, use a piercing gun, so there's little chance for them to make a mistake. Of course, make sure that the place you go to uses sterile materials and is completely sanitary. If you do decide to pierce your own ears, it would be a good idea to ask around, or even go to a tattoo/piercing place and see if they have any tips...it's better to ask a professional than to start from scratch. But anyway, I still recommend that you try going to Claire's or shop around and find a clean/licensed place that is relatively inexpensive.

I found a site specializing in prom dresses and accessories (through a google search), and there are pages for dresses that flatter all body types...a separate page for each.

Here is a link for dresses for slender body types- you can get ideas for styles of dresses that flatter your body type and look for those particular styles, or you can browse the site for dresses you like: (there are quite a few pages actually, so click next to see all).

http://www.promgirl.com/shop/body_types/slender

On the left-hand side of the page you can find links for accessories (bags, shoes, etc.). Good luck, and have fun at the prom!

There is no way to know whether or not you have a yeast infection or some other type of infection until you get diagnosed by a gynecologist. Your symptoms do sound like you might have a yeast infection, but it could be related to some other type of bacterial infection, like bacterial vaginosis, whose symptoms are similar to a yeast infection. Depending on what you have, your gynecologist can prescribe antibiotics/medication or some sort of cream. No body on this site can diagnose your symptoms, so you definitely should consult a gyno.

If you have a yeast infection, there's a prescription medication called Diflucan- it's only one dose that stays in your system for a week- you can ask your gyno about it. It's very effective. If not, you might be prescribed some other sort of medication to clear up the symptoms. Also, if you are sexually active, you should get tested for common STD's in order to rule anything out. Gyno's deal with these things all the time and can help you figure out what you have and how to treat it.

It is normal to get more emotional during/around the time of your period. How much really depends on the person. I had a friend who got very moody, whereas I usually get slightly more emotional and sensitive. It probably also depends on your age. If it is becoming a problem and seems like you are beyond moody and emotional, you can always talk to a doctor or other professional.

Also, just because your friends call you bipolar doesn't mean you are. It is a serious mental condition, so being moody does not imply that someone is bipolar or even has bipolar tendencies. If, however, you (and/or anyone else) notice that your mood swings are a serious problem even when you are not on your period, consider consulting a parent or doctor about it. But all in all, being emotional during your period is normal, especially if you are a teen or are still getting used to the cycle.

Like the others have mentioned, there is nothing you are supposed to do when it comes to your body. It seems to be a bit of a trend to shave or wax the entire pubic area, but keep in mind that pubic hair is there for a reason- to protect the vagina. So for health reasons, it is better to have some pubic hair. However, it's best to groom/trim the area so that there isn't too much..it's more hygienic. So really, it is a matter of preference how much pubic hair you choose to have, but for health reasons it is best to have a little bit.

I felt the same when I started using tampons, but you get so used to it that insertion becomes second nature. Like the person below said, you should be relaxed and in a comfortable position (sitting on the toilet helps). Your muscles need to be relaxed so you have an easy time. Once you put it in (aimed toward your lower back), you should not feel it at all...if you do, push it in a little further using your index finger. It cannot get lost in there. Make sure to use the minimal absorbency for your needs, and alternate absorbency according to your flow. All brands offer multi-packs which come in regular and super. Don't worry, there is no way for the tampon to get lost, as the vaginal muscles keep it in place. Also, all brands are monitored extensively, so there is no way for you to pull off the string- it is so tightly woven. I once tried pulling so hard to check, and seriously, there's no way for it to break. If you are concerned, you can always pull hard on the string beforehand.

I recommend using a plastic applicator tampon, as insertion is easier, especially for beginners. I started off using Playtex Gentle Glide. Make sure that you change it ideally every 3-4 hours, never more than 8 (which is too long anyway). I actually read in a magazine that it's best to change your tampon every 3 hours as bacteria can accumulate. Also, make sure to use a pad when you go to bed, as it isn't good to use tampons overnight (assuming you stay in bed for 8-9 hours). One more thing, when your flow is heaviest, you might want to wear a pantiliner or pad as well, just in case of leaks. You will start to get a feel for what absorbency you need according to the flow, and how long you can keep the tampon in.

** If it is hard to remove the tampon (feels like it's hard to pull out), it means it isn't saturated yet, so you should wait a bit longer till it has reached nearly full absorbency. To prevent this, always use the minimal absorbency... e.g. regular, or super for heavier days. All brands of tampons include an instruction and information guide, so you can also use that as reference.

Here are some useful links:

http://www.youngwomenshealth.org/tampon.html

http://www.playtexgentleglide.com/

A number of things can cause irregular periods, with stress being a common factor. It could be hormonal, so it's best to talk to a doctor or gynecologist about it to be absolutely sure. They could take a blood test and ask about your health history, in order to properly assess your particular situation. No body can tell you for sure, especially not online. If you skip your period, or if it does not come relatively regularly, then you should talk to a gyno. It's normal for your period to come late once in a while, but if you skip it one month, or it's consistently irregular (as in more than a week late, for a couple of months or more), then you should consult a doctor.

Also, to be safe, always use a condom every time you have sex, and consider going on the pill.

It might be better since that's less heat styling than blow drying and using a straightener. But any type of heat styling can damage your hair- no matter what,I would recommend using some sort of serum or spray to prevent too much hair damage. Make sure that your hair is completely dry before you straighten it- otherwise it can get fried and badly damaged. After, use a good serum- Biosilk is great, it's available at most drugstores. You can also find a range of hair products specifically designed for African American hair types- it's usually in some part of the haircare aisle at drugstores or Target.

You could try using a blow dryer with attached brush, but I think it's better to use a good hair serum/oil, before blow drying and straightening. Or see if you can find a good brand and see how you like it.. here's a link for some information on Hot Tools blow drier plus attached comb/brushes:

http://www.folica.com/Hot_Tools_Brush_d969.html

No one has to be alone- actually no one can be alone in this world. That is exactly why you feel that there is a void in your life that only good friends can fill. But being alone is your safety blanket. Being along means not getting hurt, and it can mean being self-reliant. But it also means feeling alienated, shut off, lonely, bored, detached...

Throughout my college years, I felt more alone than you could imagine. I was in a new city, hardly had any good friends, didn't go out enough. I regret it- all of it. Was it a safety net for me? Yes. But did I learn anything from it? Absolutely not. It was, for the most part, an unfulfilling time of my life because I pretty much shut my social life off by choice. You don't have to...and you really shouldn't. It really wasn't until AFTER college that I started to open up more and make an effort to establish friendships. I am so much happier because of it. I am also like you, once you get me talking, I can go on and on... so you know what? You ARE social, you just need to feel comfortable.

You are not going to feel comfortable around your friends until you make an effort. Start small- go out somewhere- out to dinner, coffee, etc., and make it a habit to keep in touch. Call and set up plans, and trust me, your friends will reciprocate. As for your best friend, stop consciously thinking to yourself that you cannot open up around her- because then you won't. You need to find common ground, go out more, and start opening up to her. If for some other reason you feel like you really can't or shouldn't open up to her, then you aren't obliged to. But if it's just you, and not her, then really try to relax and make more of an effort.

Starting to feel close to your friends begins with taking initiative to socialize more and keep in touch. You might even consider having a dinner night or movie night- something along those lines so you have something to look forward to. If you let down your guard, you will start to feel closer to people...slowly, but surely.

I would recommend using jojoba oil diluted with water to remove eye makeup. It is natural, and actually strengthens and conditions lashes well. You can buy it at Trader Joe's (hopefully you have on in your area), or some other health food store, even online. I cannot say enough about it. I have an empty container that I fill around 1/3 jojoba oil, and the rest water..shake, and use a cotton ball to remove even the most stubborn mascara. My lashes are healthier now.

The proper way of removing eye makeup is.. soak a cotton ball/round with eye makeup remover (the above mixture works great), and leave the cotton on your eye for around 5-10 seconds, allowing it to soak in and loosen the mascara. Then wipe off gently (toward the inner corner of your eye, to avoid tugging).

As for brands, I love Neutrogena Healthy Volume mascara.. it contains olive/almond oils, and keeps your lashes soft and conditioned. The wand is pretty fat, so if that's something you like, this is the mascara for you. Almay also has fairly gentle mascaras, I haven't tried them though. Stick to something moisturizing- I recommend (in order of preference): Neutrogena Healthy Volume mascara, L'Oreal Featherlash, Maybelline Full & Soft. All great mascaras that will not make your eyelashes feel dry and crunchy.

I lived in Holland for a year, and while I was there, Schwarzkopf hair products were available nearly everywhere- pretty much all over western Europe, actually. I really liked Schwarzkopf Gliss Kur, liquid silk shampoo & conditioner. It made my hair very soft, shiny and manageable. It should be available throughout Europe, actually I wish it were available here in the states, too.

Here is a link for more information:

http://www.gliss.schwarzkopf.com/?id=1252

Your mom only wants the best for you. Having a baby is a huge responsibility at any age. But you are still a teenager, and not even fully mature mentally or physically. Even if you are mature for your age, there is only so much a teenager can handle. You are probably starting to figure yourself out, and to add a baby on top of that- it is not a good idea.

You should speak to your mom about this and come to some sort of agreement regarding taking care of the baby. I am sure that she is more than willing to help. The best thing for you to do is to continue living at home with your mom, finish up school, and let her help you with your responsibilities. You will not have to worry about paying rent or making ends meet- right now, your baby should be your only responsibility. For your child's well-being, you should listen to everything your mom says. She has experience and is only looking out for the best. Even though you want to be on your own, it really isn't the time.

Aloe Vera gel can help soothe the area and reduce redness. You can find it at any drugstore. Make sure that you have been under warm water for at least a few minutes the next time you shave, in order to soften the hair. And always use a clean razer and replace the blade when it starts getting dull.

Here's a link with some information:

http://www.homeremedycafe.com/razor-burn-remedy.htm

Although it's a bit on the expensive side, I swear by Benefit "Dr. Feel Good" primer. I have combination skin, and get oily t-zone. This keeps my skin matte for longer, and helps powder/foundation go on more smoothly. It's perfect for those of us with combination/oily skin. It's around $28 (probably a little over $30 with tax), so it is expensive, but if you're looking for a great primer for oily skin, this stuff rocks. You can find this at most department stores at the Benefit counter, or online (benefitcosmetics.com). You can try it on at a Benefit counter to see if you like it.

Pre-waxed strips are generally less effective than using microwave wax and your own waxing strips. It might not be working well if you have coarse hair. Or you might want to try Veet waxing strips- they work well for most people.

When waxing, pull the strip in the opposite direction of hair growth. So if you are waxing your legs, pull the strip upwards. Make sure to do this very quickly, otherwise it won't be effective. Waxing your underarms can be more tricky since the hair grows in different directions. You'll have to pull off the strip both ways, usually it takes a couple of strips. If you get tired of using waxing strips, try using a microwave wax- Sally Hansen is good, or get one from the beauty supply. You can always get a professional wax- salons usually have that service.

**By the way, I didn't realize that you might be referring to Nair cream hair remover (Nair also has waxing strips).. anyway, if you are, wait a few more minutes next time, and then test a small patch. But do NOT exceed 10 minutes- your skin can get irritated. Also, make sure that when you apply it, your hair is covered completely.

You should get a blood test to determine if you have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome- it sounds scary, but it just means you get recurrent cysts on your ovaries. It is important to determine if you do have it, so that your doctor can prescribe medication to you. It is best to take medications to control the cysts, if you happen to be prone to getting ovarian cysts. You can become infertile later on down the line if you let it get worse. Do not worry though, this could just be a single cyst and is unlikely to affect your fertility. However, since you already had one cyst, you have no way of knowing if there are others, and if you need to control it with medication to prevent any bursts, or even damage to the ovaries. It's best for you to go to your doctor and ask for them to test you for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, just to be sure.

How bad is it? It's terrible. I cannot imagine why you would contemplate whether it's good or bad- nothing about forcing yourself to vomit after you have eaten, can possibly be positive, good for you physically, emotionally, or psychologically. It is just plain bad.

I have never suffered from bullimia, but I have known people who have. It is an extremely unhealthy for two reasons. First, forced vomiting has detrimental effects on your body. Overtime, your intestines and heart become negatively affected from the forced purging, pressure and excess acidity- you can die from it. Your tooth enamel will be eaten up from all the acid in your vomit. Physically, the longterm effects can (and often do) put your life in danger- nothing to play around with. Second, this condition is psychological and deeply rooted in a negative body image. That is the root of the problem, and the psychological conditions of bullemia and other eating disorders need to be addressed just as much as the health effects of the disorder itself.

Is loosing the weight worth putting your life and well-being in danger? You need to talk to a professional- private or at school about this. At least tell a parent, teacher or trusted adult. You can stop this now before it gets any worse. Once you are on the wrong track, it will become that much harder to reverse the damage.

I am here to give honest advice, when I feel I have something to contribute. I try to be as empathetic and understanding as I can, as I know that the way something is said is as important as the message itself.

I usually advise on love/relationships, friendship and family issues, nutrition, and health (mental and physical). If I feel I can help out, there's not a whole lot I am unwilling to answer. Ask away!

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