Stay Proud and Prepared This Summer

At man2man, our commitment is to improve the well-being of gay, bisexual men, men who have sex with men (gbMSM), and transgender people in their sexual lives. We recognise that each person has unique sexual health needs, but what unites us is the shared importance of looking after our health and well-being. We are excited to collaborate with LINC, a trusted health resource for lesbians and bisexual women, as part of the Proud and Prepared campaign. Together, we acknowledge the significance of sexual health and well-being for everyone. If you identify as a lesbian or bisexual woman, you can find relevant sexual health and well-being information tailored to your needs at linc.ie.

What is Sexual Health?

Sexual health, as defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO), is a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality. It goes beyond the absence of disease and includes positive aspects of sexuality, such as pleasure, respect, and consent.

Why Our Sexual Health Matters:

Our sexual health is an important part of our overall well-being. It affects our relationships, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. By prioritising our sexual health, we can enhance our sexual experiences, reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and promote healthy relationships.

Proud and Prepared: Empowering Your Sexual Health

Being Proud and Prepared is all about equipping you with the knowledge, resources, and confidence to lead a sexually healthy and fulfilling life. Here are some ways you can protect yourself and others and empower your sexual life this Pride Season

  • Consistent condom use, particularly when changing partners: Used correctly, condoms can prevent transmission of most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV. Always use condoms correctly during anal, oral, and vaginal sex to reduce the risk of STIs, including HIV. You can find out where to access condoms at our Free Condoms and Lube Page.
  • Regular testing: Maintaining a proactive approach to your sexual health involves regular testing for STIs, including HIV. By getting tested regularly, you ensure early detection of infections and enable prompt treatment. Accessing STI testing has become more convenient than ever before. Explore a range of testing options, including home testing, rapid testing, and in-clinic testing, by visiting our Testing Page. Stay informed, take control of your sexual health, and make testing a regular part of your well-being routine.
  • Vaccinations: If you are a gay, bisexual or man who has sex with men (gbMSM), it is recommended by the National Immunisation Committee (NIAC) that you are vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B and HPV (human papillomavirus) and mpox. Visit our Vaccines Page to find out more about vaccines and how to get them. To book your mpox vaccine visit the HSE mpox page here.
  • Consider PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis): If you are at a higher risk of contracting HIV, consider discussing PrEP with your healthcare provider. PrEP is a medication that, when taken as prescribed, can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission. Learn more about PrEP and how to access it
  • Consider PEP (Post-exposure prophylaxis): PEP can prevent possible HIV infection if you have had condomless sex, or if a condom has split or slipped off and you do not know the HIV status of your sexual partner. If you are on PrEP and have missed doses, you might need to take PEP. PEP is a 28-day course of tablets that must be started within 72 hours (3 days and 3 nights) of the possible exposure to HIV. Learn more about PEP and where and how to access it.
  • Open Communication and Disclosure: Openly communicate with your sexual partners about your sexual health and any potential STI risks. Practice mutual disclosure to ensure informed decision-making and promote a culture of trust and respect.
  • Mental and emotional well-being: Take care of your mental and emotional health by seeking support when needed. Engage in self-care practices, maintain healthy relationships, and address any concerns that may impact your overall well-being. Visit our Mental Health and Wellbeing page for advice and a list of support services available to you.
  • Safer Drug Use Practices: If you engage in drug use, prioritise your safety by never sharing any drug-related equipment. Refer to our section on Drugs and Alcohol which offers harm-reduction advice and tips and provides links to support services and other resources such as MPOWER’s Sex Part First Aid Guide
  • Education and awareness: Stay informed about sexual health topics, including STIs, by accessing credible sources of information. The more you know, the better equipped you are to make informed decisions and protect your health. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to stay updated on the latest sexual health news, events, and resources. We provide valuable insights, tips, and reminders to help you stay on top of your sexual health.

Remember, sexual health is an ongoing journey, and it’s important to prioritise your well-being and that of your partners. Regular testing, open communication, and adopting preventive measures contribute to a safer and healthier sexual experience.