Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia

Sexual Agreements Among Gay Couples Show Promise for HIV Prevention: Study

by Rukmani Krishna on March 28, 2013 at 11:29 PM
 Sexual Agreements Among Gay Couples Show Promise for HIV Prevention: Study

According to a University of Michigan study, the majority of gay men in relationships say they establish a "sexual agreement" with their partner, primarily to prevent the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

Sexual agreements show promise for HIV prevention, but the down side is that only 57 percent of couples actually concur that they have agreements, says Jason Mitchell, assistant professor at the U-M School of Nursing. Further, among nearly half of the couples one or both men break their agreement, which outlines allowable sex-related behaviors in the relationship.


Many men fear disclosing breaking their agreement, which may inadvertently increase their risk and their partner's risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. While gay men account for only 2 percent of the population, they represent more than half of new and existing HIV cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The good news is that of the couples who concur about the existence and type of sexual agreement, 80 percent keep their agreements, Mitchell says.

"From a public health perspective, we need to encourage gay couples to have more honest and explicit discussions when establishing and honoring sexual agreements," Mitchell said. "Sexual agreements are not only advantageous from a prevention standpoint for couples, but the agreement can also help strengthen their relationship."

Further, the research highlights the need for strengthening HIV prevention among gay couples.

Mitchell's is the first known study to gather information from both male partners in relationships across the country. Mitchell recruited participants using paid Facebook advertisements targeting men 18 and older in a committed relationship with another man.

Source: Eurekalert
Font : A-A+


Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Sexual Health News

Can Stress Cause Infertility?
Sexual performance and sperm health are found to be affected with the increased levels of stress, thereby causing infertility.
Four-step Plan for Detecting Sexually Transmitted Infections
The tests identified 255 cases of gonorrhea, chlamydia, or syphilis, most of which (86 percent) would have otherwise gone undetected for lack of symptoms.
Top 10 Reasons of Dullness in the Marital Sex
Can getting married dull your sexual life? Yes, actually it can. After a while, long-term relationships can start to feel monotonous.
Mindfulness: Zoom Sessions Beneficial for Sexual Health After Cancer
Facilitators can moderate group discussions via zoom successfully and should encourage each participant to speak openly.
Sperm Age may Help Predict Pregnancy Success
Higher sperm epigenetic aging is associated with a longer time to become pregnant in couples not assisted by fertility treatment.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
×

Sexual Agreements Among Gay Couples Show Promise for HIV Prevention: Study Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests