PPSWCF Encourages Men to Get Regular STI Testing During Men’s Health Week

For Immediate Release: June 14, 2016

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Sarasota, FL — Throughout Men’s Health Week, PPSWCF urges men to take charge of their sexual health by getting tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, if they are sexually active.

 

Not enough men get the screening they need. It can be easy to take our health for granted, but preventive care is an important part of keeping yourself safe, healthy, and happy. 

 

“Everyone deserves a sex life that is safe, healthy, and pleasurable, and taking care of your body is a big part of that," said Dr. Suzie Prabhakaran, Vice President of Medical Affairs. “Getting tested for STIs and knowing your status is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health and take control of your sex life — and it’s easier than ever before.”

 

STI tests are generally quick, simple, and painless. For example, rapid HIV tests can provide results in as fast as 20 minutes from just a swab inside the mouth. Gonorrhea and chlamydia testing simply requires a urine sample. The good news is that all STIs, even HIV, are treatable and many are curable. The sooner you know your status, the better you can protect your health and the health of your partner(s). Early treatment can help prevent serious, lifelong health problems that can result from untreated STIs. Condoms used consistently and correctly provide the best protection against STIs, and can actually enhance your sex life.

 

“Engaging in respectful, consensual sex includes being comfortable talking about what you and your partner want and don’t want,” Nan Morgan, Director of Education added. “Open, honest communication between partners is necessary to ensure that sex is safe and mutually consensual -- as well as fun for both partners.”

 

All sex should be wanted sex. Consent is when both people are excited about what’s happening. This means checking in with your partner before any sexual activity occurs and throughout to make sure they are absolutely interested in continuing with what is happening. Planned Parenthood’s video series on consent can help you understand consent in a fun, as well as educational, way.

 

“Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida is proud to be a source of care for men in Florida and to answer any questions they may have about their sexual health," said Dr. Prabhakaran. “Our doors are open to everyone.”

 

Planned Parenthood provides a number of health care services for men, including testing and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, HIV testing, free and low-cost condoms, vasectomy and sexual health information and education.

 

In the last 10 years, Planned Parenthood has nearly doubled the number of male patients we see nationally for health issues that affect men: Between 2004 and 2014, there was a 76 percent increase in Planned Parenthood male patients.

 

June is also Pride Month, and Planned Parenthood is proud to provide health services and information to gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. 

 

Planned Parenthood health centers provide high-quality, confidential, affordable health care and our doors are open to everyone. Visit plannedparenthood.org to find a health center and make an appointment.

 

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