Sometimes when I go to parties, I see and know other teens engaging in risky sexual behavior, like hooking up with someone they just met at the end of the night, or not using protection when having sex. I think a big reason for this is being young, active, and going out can make you feel like you’re invincible.

Safe Sex for Teen Guys who Have Sex with Guys

Even though guys aren’t at risk for pregnancy, when they have sex with other guys they are still at risk for STDS and HIV/AIDS. Here are reasons why MSM should take steps to protect themselves:

• MSM are at high risk for STDs, and the HIV rates in the U.S. have risen steadily among men who have sex with men since the 1990s.

• Engaging in unprotected anal sex is especially risky when it comes to transmitting STDs and HIV. This is because it is easy to make small tears or cuts in and around the rectum where STDs and HIV can easily pass through.

• Many MSM are not aware of their HIV status. In a nationwide study where 10% of YMSM tested positive for HIV, 69% of those who tested positive had been unaware of being infected.

What You can do to Protect Yourself:

• Get tested, and know your partner’s status. Even if you are both in an exclusive relationship, you still should get tested to know your status. You know that saying, “it’s not just about who you sleep with, it’s about who they’ve slept with”? This is especially true for men who have engaged in unprotected anal sex. Find a clinic near you by clicking here.

• Use protection when having sex. A dental dam can be used when having oral sex. A dental dam is a small piece of latex that is placed over the anus to protect from STDs. To read more about the dental dam, click here. Using a condom correctly every time you have anal sex is highly effective at reducing the risk of STD and HIV transmission. To read about how to use a condom correctly, click here. You can also even use a female condom when having anal sex. To read more about how to use the female condom for anal sex, click here.

• Get educated and find support. Studies show that people who educate themselves on safe sexual practices and have peer support are more likely to protect their sexual health. Reading this article is a great first step, and finding an LGBT center in your area can also be helpful. To find an LGBT center in your area click here.

To read more about safe sex practices for MSM, check out the following websites:

Ø  Avert: Gay Men, Sex, Relationships, and AIDS

Ø  Chadzboyz: GLBT Teen Support

Ø  Amplifyyourvoice.org: Queer Living