Health problems for gay men and men who have sex with men

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Understanding important health issues, from STIs to depression, for gay men and men who have sex with men will help them learn how to protect themselves own health.

1. Protect yourself against sexually transmitted diseases

Men who have sex with men face a much higher risk of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV - the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
To protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases :
Use a condom or other protection: use a new condom every time you have sex, especially during sex. anal and even oral sex. Only water-based lubricants should be used, not petroleum-based waxes, body lotions or oils. Oily lubricants can damage condoms, leading to condom tearing. Loyalty: Another way to prevent STIs is to be faithful to a partner who does not have the disease. Limit alcohol use, do not use drugs: not being in a sober state easily leads to unsafe sex; Do not share needles if you use drugs. Vaccinations: Immunizations help prevent some STIs like hepatitis A and B, but not all STIs are preventable, like hepatitis Virus C (which can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death) has no vaccine. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can be given to men 26 years of age and younger. HPV has been linked to rectal cancer in men who have sex with men. Get both your best friend and partner's health checked: don't have unprotected sex unless you're sure you both don't have HIV or other STIs. Going to the doctor is very important, because many people do not know they are sick or are subjective with their own health. Anti-exposure medication (PrEP): Anti-exposure medication is a way for healthy people to prevent HIV infection by taking one pill a day. The drug used is a combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir (brand name: Truvada), which can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV in high-risk individuals. Truvada is also a drug in the HIV treatment regimen. Before using Truvada to prevent HIV, doctors need to make sure the user does not have HIV. In addition, doctors also need to test for hepatitis B virus, if infected with hepatitis B virus, they will need to check kidney function before prescribing Truvada. Medicines need to be strictly adhered to on a daily basis, and other precautions should still be used, like using condoms every time you have sex.

Anti-depressants: Gay men and men who have sex with men face a higher-than-normal risk of depression and anxiety disorders. If you are afraid to go to the doctor, share your feelings with someone you trust or love, this is the first step to help the treatment process go more smoothly.

2. Clearly identify anxiety about appearance

Gay men are more susceptible to appearance anxiety problems and eating disorders (such as anorexia or psychological hunger) than heterosexuals.
There is a theory that because of the obsession with the image of the effeminate gay man, the muscular man, some gay men or bisexual men feel unduly worried about their weight.
If you are concerned about your appearance or have an eating disorder, do not hesitate to see a doctor or psychologist for appropriate treatment.

3. Seeking help when falling into substance abuse

In the United States, gay men smoke more often than heterosexuals, and they also drink more alcohol than the general average.
If you fall into substance abuse, do not hesitate to seek help from gay organizations, mental health centers, or substance abuse treatment centers .

3.1 Awareness of violence

Violence affects everyone in a relationship. Gay men tend to remain silent in this situation because of concerns about discrimination and the lack of temporary refuge for them.

Being abused leads to depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. If you keep your sexual orientation a secret, it will be difficult to get help when experiencing violence. Only action as soon as possible can stop abuse.
In the case of abuse, share with anyone, be it a friend, lover, healthcare worker or close relationship, even call a dedicated hotline. violence support and planning to leave the abuser.

3.2 Make routine health care a priority goal

Don't let fear of homosexuality or any stigma of sexual orientation get in the way of health care.
Choose a doctor you can trust. Don't hesitate to admit you're gay or bisexual, ask for advice on screenings that should be done at your age, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, prostate, testicular or cancer screenings. colorectal mail.
If you are not faithful, get screened for sexually transmitted diseases periodically. Please trust and share your health concerns with your doctor, in order to detect and treat them promptly, ensuring long-term health.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.

Article referenced source: Mayoclinic