Community service improving mens sexual health

A NEW confidential sexual health service has been developed for men at Community Health.

It is provided by a nurse practitioner specialising in reproductive and sexual health. This is a free service in which men are able to obtain a sexual health check-up, including a full sexually transmitted infection screening, along with support and education in regards to their sexual health.

If required, men will be offered a free Monkeypox vaccination.

On July 2022, Monkeypox was declared a global public health emergency and subsequently a disease of National Significance by the Australian Chief Medical Officer.

The implementation of vaccination programs was required to mitigate disease spread and alleviate breakthrough infection symptoms.

Symptoms of Mpox may include: high fever, rash, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, muscle and body aches, blistery pox-type rash on the body. The rash may spread all over the body or only be present on the genitals.

Mpox can be spread via human-to-human transmission for example; close contact with lesions on the skin, body fluids, including respiratory droplets. Currently, vaccination against Mpox is recommended for groups of all ages at risk of exposure.

Mpox has no gender or sexual orientation preference, however high risk groups include: sexually active gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men, sex workers, particularly those whose clients are at risk of Mpox exposure, people living with HIV, if at risk of Mpox exposure, laboratory personnel

Vaccination may also be considered for: healthcare workers at risk of exposure to patients with Mpox, sexual partners of GBMSM, sex workers and people living with HIV.

Since it’s launch on October 7 this year, the Men’s Sexual Health Clinic has seen a consistent number of men accessing this service.

Swan Hill District Health nurse practitioner Hollie Timmins said it was great to see so many people taking up the opportunity to seek sexual health advice in a safe confidential environment.

“Men’s sexual health plays a pivotal role within their general health,” Ms Timmins said. “Education, advocacy and support is critical in ensuring men feel empowered to take care of their sexual health.”

To date, the clinic has assisted men from the age of 17-80, reflective of the high need within the community.

To book a free confidential sexual health assessment at Community Health contact the reception team on (03) 5033 9337 or email chreception@ shdh.org.au.