Men's Health

This section provides information on men's health.

Body Image
Everyone goes through periods of time when they are uncomfortable with what they look like. Here's how to have a healthy body image. This section also includes information on eating disorders.

Donating Blood
If you've had sex with another guy since 1977 (which is before most of us were born) then you're currently not eligible to donate blood. Find out why here.

HIV
Anyone can become infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, because it's not who you are but what you do that puts you at risk for getting HIV. This section answers many of your questions about HIV and how to protect yourself.

Mental Health
You often suffer, not because you are GLBTQ, but due to societal homophobia and discrimination; and because as adults we are not fulfilling our responsibilities—ensuring that every youth, of every race, religion, gender, and sexual orientation, grows up in a safe environment, a healthy environment, an environment that nurtures and supports your passions, hopes and dreams.

Safer Sex
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people are at risk for HIV, STIs, and pregnancy. This feature answers your questions about abstinence and safer sex.

Smoking
Smoking is bad for me. I know it. You know it. We all do. But quitting is still one of the most difficult things I have ever done. This isn’t another “smoking is terrible!” lecture. Queer teens are at a much higher risk of smoking than our straight peers. And did you realize that tobacco companies specifically target queer youth in order to increase their profit margins. It's time to find out what's really going on.

Substance Abuse
Beginning in early adolescence, some of us start experimenting with alcohol and drug use. There's a number of reasons for experimenting: because it's the "cool thing" to do; to make us feel less tense, just to see what the big deal is; or in some cases, to help ourselves deal with other issues that seem too overwhelming in our lives. This section deals with the complex issues surrounding substance use and abuse.

Transgender Health
Managing the health care of a transgender youth is a complicated matter. A patient-provider relationship requires several critical components for maximum positive effect: an ongoing and trusting relationship between the youth and the provider; a commitment by the provider to addressing the stigmas, disenfranchisement, and added challenges faced by transgender youth; and a personal commitment by the young person to their overall health and well being. Since many of us are not the best health care consumers, empowering youth to accept this personal commitment may be the most critical component.