Doctor's Column: Can honey be used to treat wounds?

In Uganda, any fever alone or accompanied by a headache, muscle or joint pains is labelled as malaria because the commonest cause of the symptoms is malaria. However, these symptoms may be caused by many conditions (including an allergy) or may result from a multitude of germs. Malaria is very common and may coincidentally happen together with nasal reactions. This, however, should not deter you from visiting an Ear Nose and Throat specialist for help. Kiggaji (aloe vera), tangawuzi (ginger) and honey are used in almost every so called herbal medication with mostly cosmetic results. Honey has however helped out in some people with allergies.

Dear doctor, is it true that sexual lubricants affect sperms during intercourse?
Carol

Dear Carol, lubricants are used by people who have problems in vaginal lubrication during sex. The commonest causes of lack of lubrication include, lack of adequate foreplay, hormonal problems (low oestrogen like in menopause), pain as from an episiotomy scar, drugs such as piriton or cetrizine for a running nose, and an unhappy relationship. It is also true that anxiety and stress from any cause commonly lead to vaginal dryness.

Many lubricants affect the acidity of the vagina and may cause motility problems in sperms hence keeping them longer in a hostile vaginal environment where they die or get maimed. Also some lubricants are meant to kill sperm. So for any woman trying to get pregnant, she should avoid using lubricants. The cause of vaginal dryness should be sought out and if possible removed instead of using lubricants whose effect on sperms may be detrimental.

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