ā Real Talk: Embracing Sexual Health & Empowermentā
Join David and Ty on a journey of empowerment and education with our āReal Talkā series, featuring their insights as both community members and sexual health care advocates. In this documentary-style series, David and Ty share their real-life experiences with sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They talk about the importance of proactive testing, treatment, and vaccination. Join us as we break down barriers, increase understanding about STIs, and provide resources for free testing, vaccination, and sexual health support. Watch David and Tyās full video episodes below.ā
Real Talk Episode 1: Davidā
In the debut episode of āReal Talk,ā David discusses his experiences with STIs and the importance of sexual health as part of his overall health. From sharing personal stories to advocating for preventive measures like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and regular STI and HIV testing, David emphasizes the power of open communication and community support in navigating a sexual health routine. Through empathy and empowerment, David encourages viewers to embrace their identities and prioritize their well-being by seeking out support systems and resources.ā
Real Talk Episode 2: Ty
In the second episode of āReal Talk,ā Ty shares how he is removing stigma surrounding sexual health within the gay community. As the ācondom guy,ā Ty is dedicated to breaking down barriers and promoting open conversations about STIs and preventive measures like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Drawing from personal experiences with STIs, Ty both encourages individuals to prioritize their sexual health and to build a supportive community.ā
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What Are STIs?
An STI or sexually transmitted infection, also known as an STD or sexually transmitted disease, is a virus, bacteria, fungus or parasite people can get through sexual contact. Many STIs have no symptoms so itās important to include regular testing in your sexual health routine.
Whatās Doxy PEP
In a nutshell, doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (doxy PEP) is taking an antibiotic called doxycycline to help prevent chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. It involves taking one 200mg dose of doxycycline orally as soon as possible but no later than 72 hours after having sex without a condom to help prevent these bacterial STIs.
Prevention: PrEP/PEP for HIV
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication that is highly effective at preventing HIV when taken as prescribed. HIV PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication started within 72 hours of potential HIV exposure to prevent infection. Both āHIV PrEP and PEP are effective HIV prevention stratāāegies.ā
Testing & Treatment
Most people who have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) donāt have symptoms, so itās important to get tested regularly so you can catch and treat infections early, and not pass them on to others.
Vaccination
Vaccines (also called immunizations) are the most effective way to prevent certain sexually transmitted infections (like HPV, mpox, or hepatitis A and B), and are available to you at little or no cost.ā
Talk to your provider
Itās important to have an honest and open conversation with a health care provider about your sexual history, sexual partners, and sexual practices so they can recommend the right vaccinations, testing, and screening schedule for you.ā
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
STIs, also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are common and in most cases easy to treat when caught early. Many STIs are curable. Hereās everything you need to know about the most common STIs so you can keep yourself and your partners safe.
People who are or can become pregnant
Protecting yourself protects your future children from infections.
Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM)
Protecting yourself protects your community from STIs.
Youth and young adults
Protect yourself and your partners and help stop the spread of STIs.
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