11. Sexual Health and Safety — Looking After Yourself

Sexual health in this world doesn't have to be complicated, but it does have to be taken seriously. The foundation is straightforward: know your status, test regularly, and understand where different activities sit on the risk spectrum. Most STIs are treatable. HIV is now a chronic manageable condition. Condoms reduce risk substantially, PrEP reduces HIV risk by around 99% when taken correctly, and U=U — that someone with an undetectable viral load cannot transmit HIV — is established science.

The silence around this topic has real consequences, particularly for men who are discreet or not connected to communities where this information circulates naturally. Sexual health conversations are more normal in this world than most — a direct question about testing and status is reasonable and legitimate. The goal is an ongoing practice, not crisis management: regular testing, relevant vaccinations, and an honest relationship with a healthcare provider who understands this world.