Tina Hylton-Kong, Contributor

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines sexual health as 'the state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being related to sexuality'. WHO also states, 'Sexual health requires a positive, respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence'. Men's sexual health will involve many factors, but the issue of safer sexual experiences will be the focus here.

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is caused by a virus, parasite, fungus, or bacterium that can be passed from one person to another through intimate or sexual contact. There are nearly 30 recognised STIs in the world. Some can be cured such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, trichomoniasis and others such as genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), viral STIs can be treated not cured.

How do men know they have an STI?

The self detection of an abnormal genital discharge ('leak'), ulcer ('haircut') or wart is aided by the anatomy of the male genitals - it is easier to daily self inspect (not squeeze) the penis or scrotae (testicles/balls) than the female genitals. However, even with this anatomical advantage, some men will not know because many persons with an STI do not have obvious symptoms. This often leads to poor health seeking behaviour or denial when confronted by a sexual partner and further spread the STIs.

Men with gonorrhoea, chlamydia and other STIs causing a urethral discharge syndrome may experience burning or pain when passing urine or notice an unusual discharge and or odour from the genitals. Sore throat, lower abdominal ('belly bottom'), back pain or pain in the rectum ('back passage') are also sometimes associated symptoms of STIs. Syphilis and some other STIs may cause rashes on other parts of the body.

What should men do if they suspect they have an STI?

Men should visit their family/clinic doctor as soon as possible if they suspect an STI or if they have any symptoms described above. Sometimes swab tests are ordered, but often treatment is prescribed based on symptoms and examination findings. Blood tests for syphilis and HIV (also others if indicated) are highly recommended at this visit.

Being upset is normal and understandable when a doctor tells you that you may have an STI but it is important that full communication with all sexual partners is pursued and that they visit the doctor. Though difficult, this step often reveals more information on the diagnosis and helps in the control of STIs.

Delay, denial or shortcuts (self medicating or incomplete course of medication) of treatment can result in complications such as inflammation of the spermatic cord, testes and prostate gland or disfigurement of genitals due to abscess or fistula formation or in the case of HIV that causes AIDS.

Since a weak immune system delays healing, it's very important to strengthen the immune system by eating right, getting enough sleep and reducing stress —your sexual health is part of your general health.

How can men prevent contracting STIs?

The only way to prevent STIs is to avoid sex with an infected person. Unfortunately, there is no reliable way to be sure that your sexual partner is continually free of STIs. If there is one uninfected and mutually faithful partner continually then the risk of STI is negligible. The risk for STIs increases in proportion to the number of sexual partners.

At certain times, men of all ages need to practise abstinence to avoid STIs. Consistent and proper use of condoms has been shown to reduce the incidence of STIs. Condoms may not provide protection if lesions are on the vulva, testicles, etc. The use of dental dams and or condoms for oral sex makes it safer. Proper genital hygiene and even circumcision have been shown to reduce the risk of STIs.

As couples communicate about safer sex, they cultivate the emotional qualities of their relationship. Discussions around safer sex and words exchanged while protection is introduced can help couples to communicate more easily and openly about their love life. For both sexes, protection can help them to hold off attaining climax, increasing the chances of multiple or simultaneous orgasms.

Remember sexual health is attainable and must be maintained.