Gay Men’s Health

Gay men face different risks and complexities when it comes to sexual health. There is a higher incidence of STIs in men who have sex with other men (MSM). Gay and bisexual men also make up over 50% of newly acquired HIV diagnoses in Australia.

At Sexual Health North in Joondalup, we feel STI testing and sexual health issues should be normalised, and we make it our business to deliver a safe and positive experience when you consult our experienced specialists.

STIs in Gay Men | Walk-in Sexual Health Clinic Perth

How to stay healthy

Unfortunately, in recent years, gay men are at an increased risk of several STIs, including HIV, syphilis and gonorrhoea. Infections do not always cause symptoms and regular screening is important to detect silent STIs. The good news is that testing is simple and easy.

It’s important to be aware of the risks of unprotected sex especially when there are increasing rates of drug (antibiotic) resistant bacterial infections. Whilst it may not be practicable or possible to have protected sex all the time, we recommend testing on a regular basis to keep you and your sex partners healthy.

We can screen for infections and treat when indicated or necessary. We also offer vaccinations to protect you against Hepatitis A and B both of which can be acquired through sex, and can cause serious liver infections.

STIs in Gay Men | Walk-in Sexual Health Clinic Perth

Appropriate testing & hassle-free treatments

If you are concerned about exposure to an STI or just want peace of mind, it’s important to see a doctor who has the expertise in the types of tests and treatment you will need. We know that screening is about far more than just a pee test into a specimen jar. It starts with taking a sexual history to determine what specimens are needed so we know how best to test you.

Some healthcare providers may find it uncomfortable to ask intimate questions. But without a good understanding of your sexual practices and history, they won’t be able to screen you appropriately. This may lead to under-testing and potentially missing an infection. Our dedicated sexual health team ensures you see a specialist for STI management, with most follow-up in one place.

HIV in Gay Men | Walk-in Sexual Health Clinic Perth

HIV Prevention Strategies

Our experience in sexual health enables us to share the latest knowledge on HIV prevention. Deciding which prevention strategy is best for you will depend on your lifestyle and preferences. Strategies include condoms, PrEP, PEP and Treatment as Prevention (U=U).

Condoms

Condoms are the oldest HIV prevention strategy and they are also very effective. They can help prevent HIV infection as well as many other STIs. In fact, some people who reduced their condom use when they started PrEP have gone back to using condoms more. That's because they were tired of repeatedly getting other STIs. If you have unprotected sex with new or casual partners, or you are in an open relationship, it’s important to have regular STI tests.

PrEP ( Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV)

PrEP is a highly effective prevention approach for people who have unprotected sex and are at significant risk of getting HIV. PrEP is HIV treatment medication taken before exposure to prevent the virus from establishing an infection in your body. If you are thinking about PrEP, we would be happy to assess your risk and prescribe PrEP if it’s right for you. Let the team know you would like a PrEP appointment when you contact us.

PEP (Post Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV)

PEP is an HIV medication taken for one month after an HIV exposure or a risk of exposure. It is used to prevent HIV from establishing an infection in your body. It is very important to start it as soon as possible, no later than 72 hours after exposure.

Treatment as Prevention (TasP) U=U

People who are HIV positive will have very different risks of transmitting HIV to their sexual partners. If you have HIV and are on regular treatment, you will likely get to a point where the virus is undetectable in your body. This means you can’t pass on HIV.

Our experienced sexual health specialists are happy to discuss the best strategy for you. We are committed to your health and well-being. We provide a safe and confidential place to be tested, treated and counselled.

STIs in Gay Men | Walk-in Sexual Health Clinic Perth

Gay Men’s health: why come to us?

While society has come a long way, gay men can still find it hard to find sympathetic, experienced and non-judgmental doctors. As sexual health specialists, we’ve had extensive experience dealing with gay men’s sexual health needs. We believe in health equality.

Our practice for Perth’s northern suburbs in Joondalup is non-judgemental, open and inclusive. We believe in putting patients first, listening to their individual needs, and providing prevention strategies that are available to support a choice-driven approach to sexual health.

We are up to date with all HIV prevention strategies, including HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).

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3/5 Regent's Park Road,
Joondalup 6027

08 6119 9140

Opening hours

Monday : 8.30 am - 1.00 pm
Tuesday : Closed
Wednesday : 9.00 am - 7.00 pm
Thursday : Closed
Friday : 9.00 am - 7.00 pm
Saturday : 9.00 am - 5.00 pm
Sunday : Closed