eggplant

Skip to Content

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit Logo North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit Logo Print

Contact Us
  • Public Health
    Services
    • Breastfeeding Clinic
    • Community Events and Farmers Markets
    • Dental Clinic
    • Flu Shot
    • Food Safety Certification Training
    • Healthy Babies, Healthy Children
    • Infection Prevention and Control Investigations
    • Inspection Results and Enforcement
    • Needle Syringe Program
    • Parenting Workshops
    • Prenatal Classes
    • Private Drinking Water Testing
    • The Sexual Health Clinic
    • Vaccination Clinics
    • Vaccination Records
    • Vision Screening
  • Health
    Topics
    • Air Quality
    • Alcohol
    • Animal Bites
    • Beach, Lake and Pool Water
    • Breastfeeding
    • Cancer Prevention and Screening
    • Climate Change
    • Dental Health
    • Diseases
    • Drinking Water
    • Emergencies and Being Prepared
    • Flu/Influenza
    • Food Poisoning
    • Food Safety
    • Gambling
    • Healthy Aging
    • Healthy Eating
    • Home Health and Safety
    • Housing and Homelessness
    • Injury Prevention
    • Intimate Partner Violence
    • 2SLGBTQ+
    • Mental Health
    • Naloxone
    • Parenting
    • Perfluoroalkylated Substances (PFAS)
    • Physical Activity
    • Preconception and Pregnancy
    • Prenatal Resources
    • Racism
    • Reducing Weight Bias
    • Sexual Health
    • Sharps
    • Smoking, Vaping and Tobacco
    • Substance Use
    • Suicide Prevention
    • Vaccinations
    • Youth Engagement – IMPACT
  • Health Professionals
    and Partners
    • Camp Providers
    • Child Cares
    • COVID-19 Healthcare Providers, Hospitals and Long-Term Care
    • Designated Officers
    • Emergency Management
    • Group Home and Shelter Administrators
    • Health Care Professionals
    • Health Care Providers COVID-19 Vaccine Information
    • Long-Term Care and Retirement Homes
    • Municipal Resources
    • Nutrition Resources
    • Ontario Naloxone Program (ONP) Distributing Agencies and First Responders
    • Report an Overdose
    • Schools
    • Teaching Kitchen
  • Community Data
    and Reports
    • Chronic Diseases
    • Environmental Health
    • Health Behaviours
    • Housing and Homelessness
    • Indirect Impacts of COVID-19
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Injuries
    • Mortality
    • Nipissing Parry Sound Public Health Atlas
    • Oral Health
    • Population Demographics
    • Reproductive and Child Health
    • Substance Use
    • Well-being and Mental Health
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Accessibility
    • Board of Health
    • Careers and Placements
    • Contact Us
    • News and Events
    • Personal Health Privacy Policy
    • Programs and Services
    • RFPs and Tenders
Search Button

Back To Top

Men’s Sexual Health (Guys into Guys)

HomeHealth TopicsSexual HealthMen’s Sexual Health (Guys into Guys)
  • Open new window to share this page via Facebook Facebook
  • Open new window to share this page via Twitter Twitter
  • Open new window to share this page via LinkedIn LinkedIn
  • Email this page Email

Français

Are you a guy into other guys? Looking to learn more so you can feel confident in your choices around sex? You've come to the right place. We've got you covered - and we're talking about a whole lot more than just condoms. 

On This Page:

Syphilis   HIV   Condoms, PrEP and BarebackingChemSex/Party'n' Play    Getting Tested Mental Health  Local Resources

Syphilis

What is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is on the rise in North Bay and Parry Sound among guys who have sex with guys. Many of the reasons for higher HIV and sexually transmitted blood-borne infections (STBBIs) rates among gay men and other guys who have sex with guys have been linked to social discrimination, stigma and violence.

How Do I Know If I Have Syphilis?

Syphilis is transmitted to adults through sexual contact or contact with a contagious lesion; or transmitted to an infant through pregnancy or delivery. Some people develop visible symptoms, such as a rash, and others don’t.

 Get tested for syphilis at least every three months if you:

  • hook up with guys you meet on apps, websites or in bathhouses;
  • are into Party’n’play;
  • have condomless oral and anal sex; and/or
  • have a painless sore near your anus, penis, or vagina/front hole.

Syphilis Testing and Treatment

A blood test is used to test for syphilis four to six weeks after having sex or close physical contact with a partner.

If you have a positive test result:

  • You will be connected to a public health nurse who will provide you with resources, counselling, support, and information.
  • You will be provided with antibiotics to treat your infection.

Be honest and upfront with your partner(s) and advise them to get tested and treated before you have any sexual activity.

After Treatment:

  • Once you have been treated for syphilis, you will need to go for blood tests to make sure the medication worked.
  • Though you may be treated and cured, some of the blood tests for syphilis may remain positive for life.
If you are seeing a new health care provider, let them know if you’ve had treatment for syphilis.

HIV

What is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that affects your immune system. It is possible to get HIV from anal, vaginal or oral sex, or through sharing sex toys. HIV can lead to serious health consequences when left untreated, including the development of AIDS. People living with HIV can live a long and healthy life. 

What does “Undetectable” mean?

The term "undetectable" means someone is living with HIV, but has a viral load so small that it can't be detected through testing. The consistent and correct use of antiretroviral treatment (ART) by people living with HIV to maintain an undetectable viral load is highly effective in preventing the sexual transmission of HIV. When this strategy is used consistently and correctly, the risk for HIV transmission is very small.  

Local Services:

Free rapid and/or anonymous testing is available at the Health Unit’s Sexual Health Clinic by booking an appointment: 1-800-563-2808 ext.5289

If you are living with HIV and are looking for support, please visit www.hiv411.ca 

Get free condoms from:

  • AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area (147 McIntyre Street West Suite 102, North Bay)
  • Health Unit’s Parry Sound Office (70 Joseph Street, Unit #302 in the Parry Sound Mall)
  • Health Unit’s North Bay office (345 Oak Street West)

More information

  • HIV and what it means for your next hookup
  • Bottoming and topping
  • HIV & the Sex You Want

Condoms, PrEP and Barebacking

PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis):

  • A pill taken daily to help prevent getting HIV.
  • Does not prevent other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs) like syphilis, chlamydia or gonorrhea.
  • It is recommended to use a condom even when you are on PrEP.
  • PrEP can be accessed at the Health Unit’s Sexual Health Clinic by booking an appointment: 1-800-563-2808 ext.5289.
  • VIDEO: PrEP & the Sex You Want

Condoms:

  • An easy way to prevent the spread of HIV and STBBIs while still having pleasurable sex.
  • Get free condoms from:
    • AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area (147 McIntyre Street West Suite 102, North Bay).
    • Health Unit’s North Bay office (345 Oak Street West)
    • Health Unit’s Parry Sound Office (70 Joseph Street, Unit #302 in the Parry Sound Mall)

Check out the ChemSex and Party n’ Play section below for tips on smart condom use.

Barebacking:

Some people will choose to have condomless sex (sometimes called barebacking). Not wearing a condom during anal or vaginal/front hole sex is a high-risk factor for STBBIs. If you choose to have sex without a condom and do not take PrEP, it is very important to get tested regularly, know your status, and know your partner(s)'s status(es). 

ChemSex and Party'n'play

"Chemsex" and "Party'n'play (PnP)" refer to taking drugs while having sex. People may have ChemSex for a variety of reasons. Regardless of the reason, it's important to know more about ChemSex so you can make an informed decision about your health.

Risks of ChemSex or PnP:

  • Overdosing on drugs or a combination of drugs or alcohol
  • Becoming unconscious or disoriented, which can lead to sexual assault
  • Having a drug interaction with other prescription medication
  • Increased risk of HIV, Hepatitis, or other sexually transmitted blood-borne infections (STBBIs) when using injection drugs, or through barebacking with partners of unknown HIV status
  • Addiction issues, which might lead to loss of friends, family, partner(s), employment and/or housing
  • Severe mental health issues including depression, anxiety, weight loss, paranoia and psychosis

Strategies For Men Who PnP That May Help Reduce HIV, Hepatitis C and STBBI Transmission:

1) Testing

  • Regular HIV, Hepatitis C and STBBI testing is recommended, especially for men having sex with multiple partners.

 2) Condoms

  • If men are using condoms during long sex sessions with one partner, the condoms should be replaced regularly, and lube should be applied often to reduce the chance of the condom ripping.
  • A new condom should be used with each new partner.

3) Lube

  • If condoms are not used, plenty of lube should be applied throughout sex to help reduce irritation of the rectal lining and penis.
  • Plenty of lube should also be regularly applied when fisting. A new glove should be used for each fisting partner. 

4) Medication

  • HIV-negative gbMSM who PnP may be good candidates for PrEP.
  • HIV-negative gbMSM who PnP may be good candidates for post-exposure prophylaxis(nPEP) after a potential exposure to HIV.
  • For men who inject drugs, it is important to always use new needles and other injecting equipment.

8 Ways To Help Reduce Your Risk Of An Overdose:

  • Never take drugs alone.
  • Know the signs and symptoms of an overdose
  • Go Slow. There isn't a good way to test out your batch at home. Anything can be cut with fentanyl, so use a small dose at a time and pace yourself.
  • Don't mix drugs or alcohol.
  • Have a Naloxone kit available. Naloxone is a drug that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose
  • Don't be afraid to call 911. An overdose is a medical emergency.
  • Party with consent.
  • Know you can refuse drugs or sex if you want to.

Get tips from gay guys on using drugs more safely.

Getting Tested

Whether you want to top, bottom, or have other forms of sex, and whether your partner is poz or neg, knowing your HIV status and whether you have a sexually transmitted blood-borne infection (STBBI) will help you make informed decisions about your sexual health, and make you more confident in bed (or wherever you like to do it).

The Health Unit’s Sexual Health Clinic offers a wide range of programs and services for gay, bi, transmen and other people who have sex with men in the North Bay Parry Sound area, including:

  • Screening and treatments for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
  • HIV testing (rapid and/or anonymous)
  • PrEP
  • Referrals for Hepatitis A & B vaccination
  • Gardasil vaccine (for those who qualify)
  • Pregnancy testing and birth control
  • Free condoms

See Clinic Locations & Hours

Mental Health, Stigma and Social Connection

Being your authentic self might be hard. We all have a role to play in reducing stigma, building community, and helping others to get help when they need it.

If you are struggling with your mental health, there are services available to help. Find local mental health services today and learn more about talking about your own mental health.

Local Resources

Local Resources & Groups that Support Guys into Guys:

  • Health Unit's Sexual Health Clinic offers free sexual health services
  • OUTLoud North Bay is outreach, peer-to-peer support and a community hub for LGBTQ youth at risk
  • AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area (ACNBA):  Assistance and support for all persons infected or affected by HIV/AIDS and/or Hepatitis C.  Private ACNBA Facebook Group: New Horizons 2SLGBTQ+ Seniors Program North Bay (aims to support an empower those who identify as older adults [55+] within the 2SLGBTQ+ community)
  • North Bay & District Multicultural Centre: A safe and positive lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (“LGBTQ”) space in North Bay
  • LGBT Youthline is a toll-free Ontario-wide peer-support phone line for LGBTQ2S+ people
  • West Nipissing Pride – Fierté Nipissing Ouest
  • North Bay Pride
Learn how to look out for yourself and for each other while having the sex you want!

Content adapted from Ottawa Public Health and Gay Zone

 Other Topics:

  • Monkeypox
Health Topics
    • Air Quality
    • Alcohol
    • Animal Bites
      Toggle Section Animal Bites Menu
      • Rabies
    • Beach, Lake and Pool Water
      Toggle Section Beach, Lake and Pool Water Menu
      • Beaches
      • Public Spas, Pools and Hot Tubs
      • Harmful Algae Blooms
      • Swimmer's Itch
    • Breastfeeding
      Toggle Section Breastfeeding Menu
      • Using a Breastmilk Substitute
    • Cancer Prevention and Screening
      Toggle Section Cancer Prevention and Screening Menu
      • Sun Safety
    • Climate Change
    • Dental Health
      Toggle Section Dental Health Menu
      • Caring for Your Child's Teeth
      • Dental First Aid
      • Early Childhood Tooth Decay
      • School Screening Program
      • Water Fluoridation
    • Diseases
      Toggle Section Diseases Menu
      • Coronavirus (COVID-19)
        Toggle Section Coronavirus (COVID-19) Menu
        • Business and Workplaces
          Toggle Section Business and Workplaces Menu
          • Face Coverings and PPE
          • Signs and Screening Tools
        • COVID-19: What to do if Symptomatic, Positive or Exposed
        • COVID-19 Testing
        • COVID-19 Vaccine
        • Écoles/services de garde d'enfants et la COVID-19
        • Schools/Child Cares and COVID-19
      • Flu/Influenza
        Toggle Section Flu/Influenza Menu
        • About the Flu Shot
      • Hepatitis A
      • iGAS or Invasive Group A Strep
      • Lyme Disease
      • Measles
      • Monkeypox
      • Mumps
      • Shingles
      • Tuberculosis
      • West Nile Virus
      • Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
        Toggle Section Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Menu
        • Coqueluche - Foire aux questions
    • Drinking Water
      Toggle Section Drinking Water Menu
      • Lead
    • Emergencies and Being Prepared
      Toggle Section Emergencies and Being Prepared Menu
      • Cleaning up after a Flood
      • Drinking Water Disinfection Instruction
      • Emergency Kits
      • Food and Water Safety for Power Outages
    • Flu/Influenza
    • Food Poisoning
      Toggle Section Food Poisoning Menu
      • Farm Fresh Eggs Safety
    • Food Safety
    • Gambling
    • Healthy Aging
      Toggle Section Healthy Aging Menu
      • Age-Friendly Communities
      • Call-in and Online Activity Groups for Older Adults
    • Healthy Eating
      Toggle Section Healthy Eating Menu
      • Community Groups & School Programs
      • Cooking and Food Skills
        Toggle Section Cooking and Food Skills Menu
        • Freezing Fruit and Vegetables
      • Find a Registered Dietitian
      • Food and the Environment
      • Food Insecurity
      • Get Cooking
      • Healthy Food for Life
        Toggle Section Healthy Food for Life Menu
        • Nutrition During Pregnancy
        • Feeding Your Baby
        • Feeding Your Preschooler
        • Feeding Your School-Aged Child
        • Nutrition for Older Adults
      • Healthy Recipes
        Toggle Section Healthy Recipes Menu
        • A Cut Above the Roast
      • Northern Fruit and Vegetable Program
    • Home Health and Safety
    • Housing and Homelessness
      Toggle Section Housing and Homelessness Menu
      • Homelessness Factors
      • Housing is a Health Issue and a Human Right
      • Homelessness Prevention
      • Local Services to Address Homelessness
      • Stigma and its Impacts
    • Injury Prevention
      Toggle Section Injury Prevention Menu
      • Concussions
      • Helmets
    • Intimate Partner Violence
    • 2SLGBTQ+
      Toggle Section 2SLGBTQ+ Menu
      • Committing to 2SLGBTQ+ Equity
      • Homophobia
      • Pronouns
      • Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression
      • When Someone Comes Out
      • Youth and Teens
      • Positive Spaces and Other Training
      • Resources
    • Mental Health
      Toggle Section Mental Health Menu
      • 5 Ways to Well-being
        Toggle Section 5 Ways to Well-being Menu
        • Be Active
        • Connect
        • Give
        • Keep Learning
        • Take Notice
      • Mental Health Services
      • Postpartum Mood Disorders
    • Naloxone
      Toggle Section Naloxone Menu
      • Naloxone Training FAQ
    • Parenting
      Toggle Section Parenting Menu
      • New Parent Resources
      • Parenting During COVID-19
    • Perfluoroalkylated Substances (PFAS)
    • Physical Activity
      Toggle Section Physical Activity Menu
      • Active Transportation
      • Physical Activity Resources
        Toggle Section Physical Activity Resources Menu
        • Exercise Class Schedule
        • Virtual Exercise Classes
    • Preconception and Pregnancy
    • Prenatal Resources
    • Racism
    • Reducing Weight Bias
      Toggle Section Reducing Weight Bias Menu
      • Body Positivity
    • Sexual Health
      Toggle Section Sexual Health Menu
      • Birth Control
      • Men’s Sexual Health (Guys into Guys)
        Toggle Section Men’s Sexual Health (Guys into Guys) Menu
        • Santé sexuelle chez les hommes : pour les hommes qui aiment les hommes
      • Preconception Health
      • Pregnancy Testing and Options
      • PrEP
      • Sex After Having a Baby
      • Sexually Transmitted Infections
      • Sex & COVID-19
    • Sharps
    • Smoking, Vaping and Tobacco
      Toggle Section Smoking, Vaping and Tobacco Menu
      • Quit Smoking
      • Arrêter de fumer ou de vapoter
      • Smoke-Free Spaces and the Law
      • Vaping and E-cigarettes
      • Vapotage et cigarettes électroniques
    • Substance Use
      Toggle Section Substance Use Menu
      • Cannabis
      • Drug-Related Stigma
        Toggle Section Drug-Related Stigma Menu
        • Let's work together to: Stop the shame. Stop the blame. Stop the stigma.
      • Healthy High - Risk-Taking Can Be Healthy
      • Methamphetamine Use
      • Opioids
      • Social Determinants of Health
    • Suicide Prevention
    • Vaccinations
      Toggle Section Vaccinations Menu
      • Adult Information
      • Child Care Information
        Toggle Section Child Care Information Menu
        • Vaccination Information for Parents
      • COVID-19 Vaccines
        Toggle Section COVID-19 Vaccines Menu
        • COVID-19 Vaccine & Vaccination Frequently Asked Questions
        • COVID-19 Vaccine: Information for Parents and Caregivers
      • Hepatitis B Vaccine Information
        Toggle Section Hepatitis B Vaccine Information Menu
        • Informations sur le vaccin de l'hépatite B
      • Meningococcal Disease Vaccine Information
        Toggle Section Meningococcal Disease Vaccine Information Menu
        • Informations sur le vaccin contre la méningococcie
      • Publicly Funded Immunization Schedule
      • School Information
        Toggle Section School Information Menu
        • Informed Consent
        • Consentement éclairé
      • TB Testing
      • Tetanus, Diphtheria and Whooping Cough Vaccine Information
      • The Law, Exemptions, Suspensions and Exclusions
        Toggle Section The Law, Exemptions, Suspensions and Exclusions Menu
        • Suspension Process
    • Youth Engagement – IMPACT

Contact Us

Subscribe to this page

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit Footer Logo

  • Website

    • About Us
    • Employment Opportunities
    • News
  • Links

    • Accessibility
    • Privacy
    • Sitemap
    • Feedback Form
  • Resources

    Increase Contrast

Your lifetime partner in healthy living!

Copyright 2022 North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit

By GHD Digital

Browser Compatibility Notification

It appears you are trying to access this site using an outdated browser. As a result, parts of the site may not function properly for you. We recommend updating your browser to its most recent version at your earliest convenience.