The staff of the sexual health
counseling program of CAMPsafe has seen an increase of men asking questions
about sexual dysfunction. What has surprised the staff is that many of these
men are having unsafe sex because of erectile dysfunction issues. Many of
these men come to us with concerns about not using condoms because they can’t
maintain an erection or they need to use drugs/alcohol as a way to keep
things flowing. The truth is that most men experience problems during sex at
some time in their life and when they do, they don’t know what to do about
it. Instead of freaking out, there are some explanations and options for
men.
According to sex expert David Fisher, the
term sexual dysfunction covers everything from loss of libido (sex-drive),
to problems with maintaining an erection, and addiction to sex. Mr. Fisher
states that “gay men’s sexual problems may be a result of past events
such as negative views of sex from people in authority (parents, teachers,
etc.), sexual abuse, and growing up in a homophobic society.” A recent
study published by the Gay Men’s Health Summit also stresses that anxiety
about HIV transmission and other sexually transmitted infections can bring
another set of issues into the bedroom.
What solutions are out there for men who are
having sexual dysfunction issues? When men meet with a CAMPsafe sexual
health counselor they are presented with a whole range of options,
including:
• Psychological treatment, which
involves counseling that focuses on education and reduction of performance
anxiety. If the individual has a partner, the partner should be involved in
any discussion.
• Testosterone treatment, which
involves seeing a doctor to test for low testosterone levels. There are
treatment options that consist of either a testosterone patch, shot, or
applied gel.
• Viagra has become a popular
treatment. Viagra should be taken up to an hour before having sex and will
last for up to 5 hours. Viagra increases blood flow to the penis. However,
if libido is the problem, Viagra may not be the answer. Viagra only works if
the individual is sexually turned on.
• Vacuum Pumping is an erectile
device that is a tried and tested method of getting more blood into the
penis. This method can be very effective for treating erection problems.
According to sexual health counselors, most
men who have sought out help have not taken the basic first step-talking
with their doctor. Don’t be embarrassed about talking about sexual
problems with your doctor or clinician. They are used to dealing with
problems of this nature and they will be able to help you. If you don’t
feel comfortable talking to your doctor, CAMPsafe offers a sexual health
counseling program.
Sexual Health Counseling
Sexual health counseling is available to all
gay men and covers a range of issues from erectile dysfunction to unwanted
unprotected sex. It can be about any concerns you may have around sexual
function and behavior, HIV, or other sexually transmitted diseases. It’s
here to help you to see the choices you have, and help you to have the kind
of sex you want.
CAMPsafe staff is also available online
during the evenings on AOL. You can Instant Message them using their chat
names; CAMPsafem4m or CAMPsafem4mjs. If you do not have access to AOL, you
may email questions to CAMPsafem4m@aol.com
or contact the CAMPsafe program at 302-227-5620 to make an appointment or
speak with a counselor.
Upcoming CAMPsafe Events
We are looking for members of the community
to join the Community Advisory Board (CAB). The CAB meets monthly to look at
CAMPsafe programs and help plan future events. Call CAMPsafe at 302-227-5620
for further information.
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