June is Men’s Health Month. A time to focus awareness on treatable, preventable health issues for men and young men. We’re so fortunate to live in a time when we have tests that can be done in the convenience of our own homes instead of clinics. It makes the prospect of self-examination much more private and secure.
I remember when the COVID vaccines were dispensed in the parking lots of universities and large empty parking areas. You had to make an appointment for a specific time to show up to receive your shot. Then later, home tests were available and distributed, which made the testing much more convenient.
We have passed the COVID scare, but sexually transmitted diseases are still out there. Any person who is sexually active and not taking precautions…STD testing is critical. Protecting yourself and those who are involved with you sexually is always the responsible thing to do. It’s also convenient with home test kits available online or from your local drugstore or Walmart.
I’ve told this story before about my experience being tested for AIDS in the mid 80s. It took me weeks to get up the courage to go in to be tested, only to find out I had to wait for the results and then come in at a later date. It took me another few weeks to get up the courage to find out the results of the test. Today you can test in the privacy of your own home for a variety of sexual and communicable diseases.
So many men fear being tested and finding out if they have an STD or HIV, and I understand that fear. If you are using protection and condoms during sexual activities, you have greatly reduced the risk of being infected. It makes good sense to stay informed as to your health status so you can enjoy continued sexual activity without fear and anxiety. Plus, you wouldn’t want to unknowingly pass along a disease that could easily have been prevented to an innocent party.
One of the pleasures and freedoms of being a consenting adult is your ability to choose to be sexually active or not, but with this freedom comes responsibility. Whether you prefer the framework of a monogamous relationship or have a variety of intimate partners… the playbook should be the same. Know your HIV and STD status so you can keep yourself and those with whom you engage safe and protected.
Men’s Health Month is a good opportunity to reflect and make a resolution to be healthier and informed. Being tested is not a surrender of your freedom or masculinity; it’s reasonable, proactive, and it’s the right thing to do. Educating and arming yourself with current information is the definition of maturity and the essence of a responsible sex partner.
DC Beings offers information and advice on home testing kits for STD’s and HIV on their website at getcheckeddc.org. Check it out!
David Shelton
Freelance graphic artist and sign designer. 66-year-old retiree who lives in Arizona with his husband, Tom.
I have also been a cartoonist, comedian, and have created articles in publications throughout the United States. My focus in retirement is primarily health, fitness, and laughter content.
I create my content based on my own life experiences.
