Whether you’re just starting to have sex, or you’ve been with your partner for decades, sex should be safe and fun.

If you’re a man who has sex with men (MSM) then testing often for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is a must. You also need to take extra care of your overall wellbeing. We can help you with safer sex, STI testing and looking after yourself.

If you’re having sex you could catch an STI. Some men who have sex with men are more at risk of HIV, some STIs and other infections such as mpox . The best way to protect yourself from STIs and HIV is to use condoms each time you have sex. You can get condoms and lube for free from us.

Getting tested for STIs and HIV will also help keep you and those you have sex with safe. If you have sex with someone new, get tested every 3 months, or once a year if you’re with the same partner. Just because you do not have symptoms it does not mean you should not be tested. Many STIs do not have any symptoms. Testing is painless and free. 

You might also think about taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). PrEP can protect you from getting HIV if you do not have the virus but are at high risk of catching it. 

If you’re worried you’ve caught HIV through sex you might be able to take a treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). PEP can lower the chance of the HIV virus taking hold.

You’re more at risk of hepatitis B (an infection of the liver), also known as hep B, if you have unprotected sex with more than one partner. Find out if you can get vaccinated to protect against hep B.

No matter what you get up to sex should be fun for those involved. This relies on communication and enthusiastic consent.

It might take a bit more thought, but safer sex will also make you feel good afterwards. Having good sex means making choices that you are happy with the next day too. 

How you feel about yourself has an impact on your health and your sex life. If you identify as LGBT+, sadly you’re more likely to be living with a mental health issue. 

Derbyshire LGBT+ offers support to anyone who’s having issues with their sexuality or gender identity. 

You can also get one-to-one support from one of our Sexual Health Promotion Practitioners. You can talk to us about concerns around STIs, sexuality or any other sexual health matter.