MSM in your pocket
10 February 2011
Many people believe that men who have sex with men (MSM) are a marginal group in our population. Male to male sex occurs throughout Africa, in all cultures, societies and geographical locations Research in South Africa shows that many MSM (up to 50%) may identify as heterosexual and have female sex partners.
This means that, in addition to MSM being particularly vulnerable to HIV infection themselves, they are influenced by and are influencing the broader heterosexual HIV epidemic.
Despite our progressive constitution, MSM face stigma and discrimination across communities in South Africa and are thus often discouraged from seeking help for their health and wellbeing.
MSM face specific sexual health risks in comparison to the heterosexual population. Understanding these differences will help healthcare providers provide prevention and treatment services to MSM.
The chapters in this manual and content covered:
• The healthcare provider and MSM. This chapter provides insight into this vulnerable group, how to interact with them and guidelines for taking a sexual history
• The sex-positive model for working with MSM and provide information on responsible sex, anal intercourse and useful terminology
• Health promotion and HIV prevention for MSM shows the importance of focussing on MSM, effective messaging targeting MSM and health promotion strategies
• Biomedical prevention strategies, unpacks the medication or medical devices that are used to reduce a person’s risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV. This includes PEP, PrEP, male circumcision, STI’s and mental health factors
• Medical management of MSM sexual health gives a broad overview of potential health problems affecting MSM. In this chapter we look at treatment guidelines for STIs, antiretroviral therapy and screening interventions
This pocket guide for healthcare workers is designed to be used in conjunction with Anova Health Institute’s manual for healthcare providers 'From top to bottom: A sex-positive approach for men who have sex with men'.
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The Rights of people living with HIV and AIDS
The Constitution of South Africa protects the rights of people living with HIV. It doesn’t allow discrimination and protects people’s right to privacy and confidentiality. In South Africa, there aren’t any laws that force people to tell others about the HIV status. People who do test positive should tell their partner, so that they can be protected and also have an HIV test. People with HIV/AIDS in South Africa are protected by the Bill of Rights and have the same rights which protect all citizens.
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