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Gay men’s health checks

Sexually active men who have sex with men (MSM) are recommended to have a sexual health check-up at least once a year, even if you have a regular partner.

If you fall into any of the following categories, you should have a sexual health checkup at least every 3 months:

  • any unprotected anal sex
  • more than 10 sexual partners in six months
  • participate in group sex
  • use recreational drugs during sex

If you have had any worrisome symptoms such as pus or a discharge from your penis, anal discomfort, you should see your doctor immediately. It’s also important to see your doctor if you’ve noticed any rashes or ulcers on your genitals, mouth or anus.

Sexual health screens for MSM

A routine sexual health screen will check for the following conditions:

  • Gonorrhoea
  • Chlamydia
  • Syphillis
  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Hepatitis C
  • HIV

Your doctor can also discuss other issues relevant to gay men’s sexual health, including other infections such as HPV, genital herpes. In addition, we can prescribe PrEP HIV prophylaxis if appropriate.

Vaccinations

Certain vaccinations are being provided for free to MSM in Victoria, as part of a government initiative. Speak to your doctor about receiving these:

  • Meningococcal ACWY vaccine
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent HPV-related cancers in MSM
  • Hepatitis A vaccine
  • Hepatitis B vaccine
  • Monkeypox (Mpox) vaccine