The syphilis outbreak began in Western Australia just over two years ago. Before this time syphilis had virtually disappeared and was thought of as a thing of the past, but a world-wide outbreak amongst men who have sex with men finally crept its way over the West Australian borders around Christmas time in 2006.

The following article is reprinted from the February issue of the American gay publication “The Advocate”.  The notion of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is one that is getting more attention here in Australia and is included here so that some thought and discussion can commence around this issue.

Workshops for gay men and men who have same sex attractions are run at the WA AIDS Council throughout the year. Each workshop has a different focus and they have been running for over 20 years.  Some workshops focus on a range of sexual health and sexual technique issues  (Nitty Gritties), others on  effective communication and assertiveness (Talk to Me), and others on coming out, being attracted to other guys, and safe sex (Men on Men).   The main purpose of these workshops is to provide a safe, comfortable space for guys to share their experiences with each other and learn form others. They are also about making contacts and networking, having a laugh and realising that you are not alone!

When push comes to shove – when desires make risky behaviour

Married men who have a same-sex attraction have fleeting opportunities to express this attraction. Many men suppress these feelings until they become overwhelmed by their desire for male contact forcing them into circumstances that are impetuous, not allowing them time for well-considered planning. This risky behaviour brings dangers to the privacy and secrecy that married men value, as well as dangers to the health and safety of themselves, their wives and their families.

The last gay men’s periodical survey, (which is conducted every 2 years at Fairday), revealed some interesting information about how gay and bi men in Perth are deciding to have anal sex without condoms. There has been a considerable increase in men discussing HIV status with casual partners before deciding not to use condoms. There has also been an increase in the number of men having anal sex without condoms with multiple casual partners since their last HIV test.

Condoms when used correctly are extremely effective in stopping HIV and other STIs. If you’ve been fucking with a condom and it hasn’t broken, slipped off, or been taken off during sex, then you have protected yourself against HIV and can expect negative test results.

Discussing unsafe sexual practices and beliefs instead of safe sexual practices may be seen to be controversial. We are also being very explicit with our terminology. We make no excuse for either of these things. We need to be explicit about the sexual practices that spread HIV, unprotected anal intercourse in particular. We are trying to redress the myths, beliefs and emerging cultural norms that have grown over time as a result of the extended impact of HIV/AIDS. HIV is still a real and present danger within our community.

The WA AIDS Council (WAAC) runs a confidential, free, medicare-based HIV/STI testing clinic for men from Monday to Friday. The clinic was established to give guys an easy, fast and sexuality sensitive option for testing. The clinic runs out of WAAC’s office which is at 664 Murray Street, West Perth.