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Meunier É, Sauermilch D. Collective Sex and Committed Relationships: A Qualitative Exploration of Relationship Desires Among Gay Men Who Attend Sex Clubs. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2023; 70:519-541. [PMID: 34678136 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2021.1993662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Studies have documented gay men's engagement in collective sex (e.g., group sex in public or commercial environments) but little attention has been paid to these men's relationship desires or agreements. We report on qualitative interviews with 20 gay men who attended private sex clubs in New York City, asking how participants navigated sometimes conflicting desires for collective sex and committed relationships. Participants felt that collective sex was either a) incompatible with relationships, which should be monogamous; b) complementary to a primary non-monogamous relationship; or c) at least as important as relationships. Gay men attending sex clubs attribute different value to collective sex and to committed relationships, and experience different challenges in satisfying their desires for intimacy. Resources could help gay men navigating these apparently conflicting desires and making suitable choices regarding their relationships and/or sexual agreements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Étienne Meunier
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Daniel Sauermilch
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Long Island University Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York, USA
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2
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Goodreau SM, Delaney KP, Zhu W, Smith DK, Mann LM, Sanchez TH, Hamilton DT, Hoover KW. Impacts of COVID-19 on sexual behaviors, HIV prevention and care among men who have sex with men: A comparison of New York City and Metropolitan Atlanta. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282503. [PMID: 36943832 PMCID: PMC10030006 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted HIV prevention, care, and transmission opportunities. This likely varies by geography, given differences in COVID-19 burden and mandates over time, and by age, given different likelihoods of severe COVID-19 consequences. We consider changes in sexual behavior, HIV testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use and antiretroviral therapy (ART) use among men who have sex with men (MSM) over the first year of the COVID-19 epidemic, comparing the Atlanta metropolitan area and New York City (NYC). We use two continuous time-series datasets and one panel dataset, assessing changes over time within city and comparing across cities, and disaggregate major findings by age. For clinical results, ART use showed by far the smallest reductions, and testing the largest. Disruptions occurred concurrently between cities, despite the major wave of COVID-19, and government mandates, occurring later in Atlanta. Test positivity increased in NYC only. In both cities, younger MSM saw the greatest reductions in testing and PrEP use, but the smallest in sexual behavior. Reduced clinical service usage would be unconcerning if stemming solely from reductions in exposure; however, the patterns for young MSM suggest that the COVID-19 epidemic likely generated new conditions for increased HIV transmission, especially in this cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven M Goodreau
- Department of Anthropology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Kevin P Delaney
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Weiming Zhu
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Dawn K Smith
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Laura M Mann
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Travis H Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Deven T Hamilton
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Karen W Hoover
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
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Bundy C, Xavier Hall CD, Foran JE, Jozsa K, Newcomb ME, Mustanski B. Reassessing the Importance of PrEP Use Given Reduced Sex During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perspectives From a Sample of Young Sexual Minority Men. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2022; 34:441-452. [PMID: 36454133 PMCID: PMC9979445 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2022.34.6.441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Research has begun to examine sexual behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic using quantitative methods, but less is known about the context surrounding these changes using qualitative methods, including corresponding changes in risk reduction methods. This qualitative study, guided by the Integrated Behavioral Model, examines the pandemic's impact on PrEP adherence among young men who have sex with men in Chicago. PrEP-using participants from a cohort study were recruited into a 90-day diary study measuring sexual behaviors and PrEP use. Between April and September 2020, a subset of participants was recruited for qualitative interviews (n = 28) exploring prevention strategies, including the impact of the pandemic. Although most were highly adherent pre-pandemic, many took fewer pills or discontinued during the pandemic due to decreased sex. Findings suggest the importance of counseling for PrEP reinitiation as "seasons of HIV risk" increase, as well as use of telehealth as a facilitator of PrEP use throughout the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Bundy
- Northwestern University Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Chicago, IL
| | - Casey D. Xavier Hall
- Northwestern University Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Chicago, IL
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - James E. Foran
- Northwestern University Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Chicago, IL
| | - Kyle Jozsa
- Northwestern University Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Chicago, IL
| | - Michael E. Newcomb
- Northwestern University Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Chicago, IL
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Northwestern University Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Chicago, IL
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
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Hubach RD, Owens C. Findings on the Monkeypox Exposure Mitigation Strategies Employed by Men Who Have Sex with Men and Transgender Women in the United States. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:3653-3658. [PMID: 36103027 PMCID: PMC9472716 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02423-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Randolph D Hubach
- Department of Public Health, Purdue University, Matthews Hall, 220, 812 W. State St, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA.
| | - Christopher Owens
- Department of Health Behavior, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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Toldam NE, Graugaard C, Meyer R, Thomsen L, Dreier S, Jannini EA, Giraldi A. Sexual Health During COVID-19: A Scoping Review. Sex Med Rev 2022; 10:714-753. [PMID: 37051956 PMCID: PMC9242892 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic impacted profoundly on the wellbeing and social interactions of the world population, and all dimensions of sexual health were potentially affected by globally implemented preventive measures. OBJECTIVES The scoping review aimed to compile existing research investigating possible effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on adult sexual health, that is, sexual behavior, functioning, and satisfaction. Further, studies on the interplay between mental health and sexual well-being during the pandemic were reviewed. METHODS The review was conducted in accordance with guidelines established by the Joanna Briggs Institute and the Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) Checklist. On October 11-12, 2021, PubMed, Embase, PsycInfo, Cinahl, Cochrane, Sociological Abstracts and Scopus were systematically searched for relevant peer-reviewed papers employing quantitative methodology. Additionally, unpublished ("grey") research studies on the subject were retrieved. The screening, data extraction, and analysis of evidence were conducted by 4 independent reviewers using an iterative approach. RESULTS Based on 107 studies included, the scoping review showed that the pandemic had had a wide impact on all dimensions of sexual health. Except for solo sex activities, mainly negative COVID-19 implications were identified, although findings were, in sum, characterized by complexity and unpredictability. Thus, sexual behavior, functioning, and satisfaction during the pandemic appeared to be mitigated by a broad range of sociodemographic and contextual factors. Finally, sexual health seemed deeply entwined with overall mental health. CONCLUSION The scoping review revealed a broad range of COVID-19-related effects on sexual health, including an overall decline in partnered sex and a concurrent increase in solo sex activities. It also emphasized a need for future research to shed light on possible long-term consequences of the pandemic in various population groups and on all aspects of sexual health. Toldam NE, Graugaard C, Meyer R, et al. Sexual Health During COVID-19: A Scoping Review. Sex Med Rev 2022;10:714-753.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Ernst Toldam
- Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Denmark,Sexological Clinic, Mental Health Center, Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christian Graugaard
- Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Denmark
| | - Rikke Meyer
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Annamaria Giraldi
- Sexological Clinic, Mental Health Center, Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark,Corresponding Author: Annamaria Giraldi, MD, PhD, FECSM, IF, Sexological Clinic, Mental Health Center, Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services CPH, Ole Maaloesvej 14, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark. Tel: + 45 38 64 71 69
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Hamill MM, Yu T, Armington GS, Hsieh YH, Manabe YC, Melendez JH. Factors Associated With New Sexual Partnerships During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Survey of Online Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing Platform Users. Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:695-699. [PMID: 35830655 PMCID: PMC9477713 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has coincided with an explosion of online platforms for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) testing using self-collected, mail-in specimens. Reports on the effect of COVID-19-associated restrictions on sexual behaviors have been mixed, but STI transmissions have continued during the pandemic. We sought to understand the pandemic impact on sexual habits associated with STIs among IWantTheKit users. METHODS Users of IWantTheKit, a free, online STI testing platform, were invited to complete an anonymous questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to describe survey responses. Associations with reports of new sex partnerships were explored as a marker of STI risk. Descriptive statistics, univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to analyze individual characteristics and reported behaviors associated with self-reported new sexual partnerships during the first 2 COVID-19 pandemic waves. RESULTS Of the 3462 users of the online STI testing platform between June 2020 and February 2021, 1088 (31.4%) completed the online survey; 705 (66.2%) of 1065 reported a new sex partner. One-quarter met their sex partners using apps. Overall, 10% were symptomatic and almost 18% were concerned that their partner had an STI. White race in men (odds ratio, 1.81; 95% confidence interval, 1.04-3.16), women younger than 25 years (odds ratio, 1.85; 95% confidence interval, 1.09-3.14), and increased condom use in both men and women were significantly associated with reports of new sexual partnerships in adjusted analysis. CONCLUSIONS Despite pandemic restrictions on social gatherings, new sexual partnerships were common in this population, associated with common risk factors, and may help to explain ongoing STI transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew M. Hamill
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases, John Hopkins School of Medicine
- Sexual Health and Wellness Clinics, Baltimore City Health Department
| | - Tong Yu
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases, John Hopkins School of Medicine
| | | | - Yu-Hsiang Hsieh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, John Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore MD
| | - Yukari C. Manabe
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases, John Hopkins School of Medicine
| | - Johan H. Melendez
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases, John Hopkins School of Medicine
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de Vries DC, Zimmermann HM, Drückler S, Davidovich U, Hoornenborg E, de Vries HJC. Barriers and Motives for Complying With "Sexual Distancing" Among Men Who Have Sex With Men During the First COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown in Amsterdam: A Qualitative Study. Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:497-503. [PMID: 35404868 PMCID: PMC9196919 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Between March 15 and May 31, 2020, the Dutch government imposed lockdown and health measures to curb the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. As part of social distancing, sexual distancing was one of these measures. Sexual distancing implied refraining from sex with partners outside of one's household. We aimed to elucidate barriers and motives for complying with sexual distancing and related factors that could have led to (non)compliance among men who have sex with men. METHODS In this exploratory qualitative study, we interviewed men who have sex with men who visited the center for sexual health in Amsterdam during the first COVID-19 lockdown using a semistructured interview guide from March to May 2020. We interviewed both men who complied and did not comply with sexual distancing. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using an open-coding process in MAXQDA. RESULTS We included 18 noncompliers and 4 compliers to COVID-19 sexual distancing. Barriers to compliance were the following: lack of information on, or understanding of, the need for sexual distancing; being single; having had an active sex life before COVID-19; a high perceived importance of the social aspect of sex; a strong urge for sex; using sex to cope with the negative impact of the pandemic; being under the influence of alcohol or drugs; and not perceiving COVID-19 as a serious health threat. Motives for compliance were the following: perceiving COVID-19 as a serious health threat, direct confrontation with critically ill COVID-19 patients, protecting someone dear from COVID-19, and being convinced of the importance of social and/or sexual distancing measures. CONCLUSIONS Information on sexual distancing needs to be made more explicit, accessible, understandable, inclusive, customized to individual barriers, and relatable to the key populations. This may improve the effectiveness of measures and health recommendations in both the current COVID-19 pandemic and future respiratory outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Susanne Drückler
- From the Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam
| | - Udi Davidovich
- From the Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Amsterdam
| | - Elske Hoornenborg
- From the Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam
| | - Henry John C. de Vries
- From the Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AIII), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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