Sexual Health

17 Aug

Posted at 16:44h in Sexual Health
[caption id="attachment_75607" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Modern Sexual Wellness-pexels.jpg Photo by Andrea Piacquadio[/caption]

Sexual wellness used to be a footnote in healthcare. If you had pain during sex, low desire, or a relationship that had gone quiet in the bedroom, the advice you got was usually some version of "relax" or "it's normal at your age." That is changing. Clinics, telehealth services, physical therapy practices, and educational platforms have all started treating intimacy as a legitimate part of health rather than a private embarrassment.

What follows is a look at several services approaching the same broad problem from different angles: research-backed writing, prescription care, hands-on rehabilitation, medical management through menopause, structured education, and play. According to the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT), sexual health is a core component of overall wellbeing, and the majority of sexual difficulties have identifiable physical, hormonal, or psychological causes that respond to appropriate treatment.

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26 Jun

Posted at 11:01h in Infections, Sexual Health, STD
Editor's note:  This post is for background information only and does not constitute medical advice. See your health care provider regarding your specific medical needs and questions. Bacterial vaginosis is often treated as an individual diagnosis, yet partner biology can shape whether symptoms return. Men do not develop it clinically because the condition depends on changes inside the vaginal microbiome. Still, penile skin and the urethra can harbor bacteria linked with recurrence. That distinction helps partners approach care with less blame, better testing, and more practical prevention.

The Short Answer

People often ask can men get BV, which is the right question. Clinically, the answer is no: bacterial vaginosis occurs in a vagina, after Lactobacillus levels fall and anaerobic microbes increase. Bacterial vaginosis is often treated as an individual diagnosis, yet partner biology can shape whether symptoms return. A male partner can still carry related organisms on penile skin or inside the urethra, then reintroduce them during sex. [caption id="attachment_74550" align="aligncenter" width="500"]bacterial-vaginosis-men-pexels Photo by Vitaly Gariev:[/caption]

30 Apr

Posted at 12:06h in Endocrinology, Sexual Health
[caption id="attachment_68237" align="aligncenter" width="232"]p-shot-men's-health-ed Photo by Italo Melo[/caption] The P-Shot, a revolutionary treatment for erectile dysfunction, has garnered significant attention for its non-invasive approach, using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to enhance sexual performance. Results from the P-Shot can last anywhere from one to two years, providing long-lasting improvements for many individuals. The treatment's time frame for noticeable effects varies, with some people observing changes within a few weeks and others needing several months. For those considering this treatment, it's important to understand the benefits and limitations. Individual outcomes can largely depend on the person’s unique circumstances and health. These factors can influence not only the effectiveness of the procedure but also the expectations around it. Reviewing p-shot before and after results from real patients can provide valuable insight into the range of outcomes—some notice enhanced performance or sensitivity, while others see subtler changes. It’s also worth noting that psychological factors, underlying health conditions, and adherence to post-treatment care play a significant role. Consulting with a specialist can help clarify what’s realistic for your specific situation. Individuals exploring this option should approach it as part of a holistic approach to sexual wellness, considering ongoing lifestyle choices and health management to maximize benefits. By setting realistic expectations and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, users can optimize their experience with the P-Shot, ensuring it aligns with their personal goals for sexual health improvement.

Key Takeaways

  • P-Shot results last one to two years.
  • Noticeable effects vary per individual.
  • Non-invasive option enhances sexual health.

04 Apr

Posted at 15:08h in Addiction, OBGYNE, Sexual Health
Editor's note:  Please discuss any pelvic floor or gynecologic issues with your health care provider first before utilizing self remedies. [caption id="attachment_67780" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Addressing Pelvic Pain Source[/caption] Living with pelvic pain can be downright miserable. Many patients can't even sit through their kid's recital or enjoy a simple walk without wincing in pain. It's tough. The silence around pelvic floor problems doesn't help either - too many people suffer quietly, not knowing where to turn. At Urology Health Store, staff see folks struggling with this every day, which is why they're big fans of the Intimate Rose Pelvic Wand. It's not some fancy invention from a corporate think-tank - a real-world pelvic physio created it after years of hands-on experience. With specialized pelvic therapy still hard to find in many parts of Canada, tools like this aren't just convenient – sometimes they're the only practical option.

01 Apr

Posted at 20:52h in LSD-Psychodelics, Sexual Health
Editor's note: Psychedelics are not FDA approved and may have significant and lasting side effects. Please use caution if you decide to use them. Psychedelics should not be used during pregnancy or around children. MedicalResearch.com is not endorsing the use of psychedelics for any reason at this time. MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_67728" align="alignleft" width="200"]Daniel J. Kruger, PhDResearch Associate Professor Research Scientist Psychology, Public Health Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University at Buffalo, State University of New York Dr. Kruger[/caption] Daniel J. Kruger, PhD Research Associate Professor Research Scientist Psychology, Public Health Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University at Buffalo, State University of New York MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: There is a lot of excitement about psychedelics now, including a boom in research. Most of the investment is in therapeutic applications, as studies are showing amazing results for treating conditions like depression and PTSD. These are worthy pursuits, of course, though we think there is so much more to explore. There are so many areas that have not yet been covered. For example, Timothy Leary said that psychedelics were great for sex. He probably knew this would get people’s attention. How prevalent is this really in people’s experiences?

06 Nov

Posted at 21:39h in Author Interviews, Neurology, Sexual Health, STD
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_64639" align="alignleft" width="200"]Sagar S. Patel, MBSDepartment of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA 18509 Sagar Patel[/caption] Sagar S. Patel, MBS Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA 18509 MedicalResearch.com: What was the background for this research? Response: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that is caused by a gram-negative bacterium called Treponema pallidum. This infection promotes the cell death of microglia and can cause a variety of symptoms. It is commonly observed in developing countries such as sub-Saharan Africa. Neurosyphilis is a complication of syphilis that affects the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS undergoes multiple stages of deterioration and can include personality changes and hearing abnormalities. Diagnosing neurosyphilis is challenging because its symptoms mimic other neurodegenerative diseases. Diagnosis relies on clinical studies, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, and neuroimaging techniques.

01 Nov

Posted at 10:59h in Fertility, Hormone Therapy, Sexual Health
[caption id="attachment_64469" align="aligncenter" width="500"]young-women-pexels Pexels Photo by APG Graphics:[/caption] Birth control or medical contraception is used for a variety of reasons, but its main role is to prevent unwanted pregnancies. There are many different types of birth control, so their function and ingredients vary. In general, they usually affect your hormones to make you unable to conceive 99% of the time. Birth control is also used to regulate hormonal imbalances, stop menstruation, or alleviate symptoms of conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Like any medication, birth control can come with some side effects, which may be mild for some and extreme for others. You and your doctor will factor in your health, medical history, potential side effects, and reproductive goals to figure out which birth control method is the best for your needs and body. When prescribed birth control, it’s important to understand common and uncommon side effects to avoid concerns and complications.

04 Oct

Posted at 09:40h in HIV, Sexual Health
When it comes to health and safety, especially in the escort industry, HIV prevention is a hot topic that deserves a candid discussion. For escorts Toronto, it’s not just about maintaining your well-being; it’s about creating a safer environment for everyone involved. Regular testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) isn’t just a recommendation it’s a necessity. Let’s dive into why regular testing is so crucial, how it empowers you, and what you need to know to keep yourself and your clients safe. HIV-test.png  

Understanding HIV and Its Transmission

What is HIV?

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells). Over time, if untreated, it can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which severely weakens the immune system and makes it difficult for the body to fight off infections. The good news? With proper medical care, HIV can be managed, and those living with the virus can lead healthy, fulfilling lives.

22 Jun

Posted at 21:22h in Author Interviews, PLoS, Sexual Health
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Karyn Anderson (she/her) PhD Candidate, Evolutionary Anthropology Lab of Dr. Julie Teichroeb University of Toronto, Scarborough MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: We sought out to determine if there were observations of same-sex sexual behavior in mammals that exist beyond the published record. We found that more people observe same-sex sexual behavior than they publish on it, and this appears to be due to a perception of researchers that same-sex sexual behavior is very rare. We found, however, that it was commonly observed by our survey participants.

07 May

Posted at 20:37h in Author Interviews, Sexual Health, Urology
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: dr-michelle-pearlman-mdDr. Amy Pearlman MD GenitoUrinary Surgeon and Sexual Medicine Specialist Board-Certified in Urology MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: There is significant controversy within urology (and in mainstream conversation) regarding penile enhancement. Our clinical experience with the PhalloFill protocol over the last 4 years has yielded great clinical and safety results. The purpose of our research is to study our outcomes in a more scientific fashion and, as a result, to be able to use this information to help educate potential patients, current patients, interested folks in the community, and other healthcare providers.

25 Jan

Posted at 11:01h in Sexual Health
The teenage years, marked by a whirlwind of emotions and self-discovery, often introduce teens to the complex world of dating and relationships. As parents, guardians, or mentors, engaging in conversations about these topics is crucial. Open and honest discussions create a foundation for understanding, trust, and responsible decision-making. This guide explores key aspects to consider when talking to teens about dating and relationships, covering everything from sex talk to seeking outside help when needed. Talk About Sex Addressing the topic of sex is a crucial aspect of discussions about dating and relationships. Provide accurate information about the physical and emotional aspects of intimate relationships. Emphasize the importance of consent, safe practices, and the emotional readiness for first time sex and other sexual experiences. Creating an open space for questions allows teens to seek guidance and make informed choices regarding their sexual health.

25 Aug

Posted at 17:33h in Author Interviews, OBGYNE, Sexual Health
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Florence Z. Martin MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit Population Health Sciences Bristol Medical School University of Bristol, Bristol, UK MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Globally, rates of caesarean section are on the rise. Many things are contributing to this, including increasing maternal age, more women who have had prior caesareans, and changes in maternal preference. One reason that women have been cited to choose a caesarean in an uncomplicated pregnancy is the maintenance of sexual wellbeing postpartum (in other words, after their baby is born). The protection of sexual wellbeing following caesarean section is thought to be via the maintenance of vaginal tone and reduced risk of vaginal tearing. However, few studies have shown this to be true. Some studies investigating sexual outcomes in the year after birth found no difference between women who gave birth vaginally and those who delivered via caesarean section. Longer term evidence is sparse, with only one study looking up to 16 years postpartum and finding that women who give birth to all their children via caesarean section are at higher risk of experiencing sex-related pain. To contribute to previous studies and provide the first piece of evidence looking at sexual wellbeing as a whole several years after delivery, we used data from the Children of the 90s study (also known as the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children or ALSPAC). We aimed to compare sexual enjoyment, sexual frequency, and sex-related pain between women who delivered via caesarean section and those who delivered vaginally up to 18 years postpartum.

21 Sep

Posted at 17:28h in Author Interviews, CDC, JAMA, Sexual Health, STD, USPSTF
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_58144" align="alignleft" width="150"]Martha Kubik Dr. Kubik[/caption] Martha Kubik, Ph.D., R.N. Professor, School of Nursing College of Health and Human Services George Mason University Member, U.S. Preventive Services Task Force MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Are these infections increasing in incidence in the US? Response: Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the U.S. More people are being diagnosed with both of these STIs than ever, with nearly 2 million cases of chlamydia and more than 600,000 cases of gonorrhea reported in 2019, according to the CDC. Because most do not have symptoms, screening is vitally important to help ensure that these infections are discovered and treated, and serious health complications prevented.

12 Aug

Posted at 19:06h in Author Interviews, Duke, JAMA, Nursing, Sexual Health, STD
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Vincent Guilamo-Ramos, PhD MPH, LCSW, RN, ANP-BC, PMHNP-BC, AAHIVS, FAAN [caption id="attachment_57914" align="alignleft" width="200"] Dr. Guilamo-Ramos
Dr. Guilamo-Ramos[/caption] Vincent Guilamo-Ramos is dean and professor at the Duke University School of Nursing, vice chancellor for nursing affairs, Duke University, and director of the Center for Latino Adolescent and Family Health (CLAFH) at Duke. Dr. Guilamo-Ramos served as a member of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (National Academies) Committee on Prevention and Control of STIs in the U.S. that wrote the recent consensus study report. He also serves as a member of the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS (PACHA) and the HHS Panel on Antiretroviral Guidelines for Adults and Adolescents. MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (National Academies) recently released a consensus study report on prevention and control of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States. The report entitled “Sexually Transmitted Infections: Adopting a Sexual Health Paradigm” includes a strong emphasis on adolescents and young adults as an important priority population for the response to record-level STI rates that have reached an all-time high for the sixth year in a row in 2019. The report also highlights the well-supported and crucial role of parents in addressing STIs and promoting sexual health among adolescents and young adults. In this new Viewpoint article, my co-authors and I, who contributed to the National Academies report as committee members or consultants, discuss the practical implications for health care professionals of engaging parents in adolescent sexual health services.

05 Apr

Posted at 16:58h in Author Interviews, Psychological Science, Sexual Health
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_57063" align="alignleft" width="200"]Leif Edward Ottesen Kennair, Phd Professor, Department of Psychology Norwegian University of Science and Technology Trondheim, Norway Dr. Ottesen Kennair[/caption] Leif Edward Ottesen Kennair, Phd Professor, Department of Psychology Norwegian University of Science and Technology Trondheim, Norway MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: We have two important lines of research running parallel: 1) research into casual sex research. Over several papers inspired by previous evolutionary studies on casual sex we map the proximate mechanisms involved in regret. However, the adaptive function of regret: more adaptive future choices, was not addressed. This is something that most people and most regret researchers just take for granted. Bendixen et al 2017, Kennair et al 2016, 2018. 2) Research into how worry and rumination is not adaptive and how changing metacognitions about these mental processes are helpful here and now, and how discontinuing these processes is an efficient treatment of GAD and MDD. Kennair et al 2017. Solem et al 2019. We found that it was important to question whether regret indeed was adaptive and affected more adaptive future short-term sexual choices. However, this demands a longitudinal design and such data are not easy to collect.

14 Sep

Posted at 10:43h in Author Interviews, CDC, HIV, JAMA, Sexual Health
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Gordon Mansergh, PhD Senior Behavioral Scientist CDC Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention MedicalResearch.com: What would you say is the take home message from the study? Response: A small but notable subgroup of gay and bisexual men are sharing their PrEP medication with others. As PrEP continues to be more commonly used, it is important to better understand and address the context of PrEP sharing, and to emphasize messaging about provider monitoring of medication use over time for health and safety reasons.

28 Aug

Posted at 13:51h in Author Interviews, JAMA, Sexual Health, USPSTF
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_55266" align="alignleft" width="133"]Melissa A. Simon, M.D., M.P.H. George H. Gardner Professor of Clinical Gynecology Vice Chair of Clinical Research Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Professor of Preventive Medicine and Medical Social Sciences Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Dr. Simon[/caption] Melissa A. Simon, M.D., M.P.H. George H. Gardner Professor of Clinical Gynecology Vice Chair of Clinical Research Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Professor of Preventive Medicine and Medical Social Sciences Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the rise across the country, with approximately 20 million new cases in the U.S. each year. If untreated, STIs can lead to serious health complications including infertility, AIDS, and cancer. The good news is that effective behavioral counseling has the potential to reduce STI rates by approximately a third. The Task Force continues to recommend behavioral counseling for all sexually active teens and for adults who are at increased risk for STIs.

13 May

Posted at 14:10h in Author Interviews, Infections, OBGYNE, Sexual Health, STD
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_54202" align="alignleft" width="200"]Gregory Kaufman, M.D. Senior Vice President Global Clinical and Medical Affairs Specialty at Lupin Dr. Kaufman[/caption] Gregory Kaufman, M.D. Senior Vice President Global Clinical and Medical Affairs Specialty at Lupin MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Would you briefly explain what is meant by trichomoniasis?  How common is this infection? Response: The Phase 3 trial evaluated the effectiveness and safety of a single oral dose of Solosec® (secnidazole) 2g oral granules for the treatment of trichomoniasis in adult women. Top-line results were positive and showed that Solosec was generally well-tolerated. Trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the U.S., and is caused by a protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis.[i] Trichomoniasis affects 3 to 5 million people in the U.S.,[ii] and is four- to five-times more prevalent in in women, compared to men.[iii].

11 Dec

Posted at 17:42h in Author Interviews, HIV, JAMA, Sexual Health, STD
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_52403" align="alignleft" width="200"]Jason Ong, PhD, MMed, MBBS, FAChSHM, FRACGP Twitter: @DrJasonJOng Sexual Health Physician, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health Associate Professor (Hon), London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK Central Clinical School, Monash University, Australia Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Australia  Associate Editor, Sexually Transmitted Infections Special Issues Editor, Sexual Health Board Director, ASHM  Dr. Jason Ong[/caption] Jason Ong, PhD, MMed, MBBS, FAChSHM, FRACGP Twitter: @DrJasonJOng Sexual Health Physician, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health Associate Professor (Hon), London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK Central Clinical School, Monash University, Australia Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Australia Associate Editor, Sexually Transmitted Infections Special Issues Editor, Sexual Health Board Director, ASHM   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is being rolled out globally. This will protect many people from HIV, however PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STI). So we wanted to quantify how much STIs are in PrEP users as a means to advocate to strengthen sexual health services in these settings where PrEP is being offered.

09 Nov

Posted at 21:11h in Author Interviews, JAMA, Sexual Health, STD, Technology, UCSD
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_52020" align="alignleft" width="200"]Alicia Nobles, PhD, MS Research Fellow Department of Medicine UC San Diego Dr. Nobles[/caption] Alicia Nobles, PhD, MS Research Fellow Department of Medicine UC San Diego  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are at record-high rates according to the Centers for Disease Control. Between STDs being highly stigmatized infections and people lacking access to health care, people may elect to turn to social media to connect with others. This is precisely why social media sites are so popular - because they do allow for people to talk with others rapidly. Reddit, a social media site that rivals Twitter with 330 million active users and is the 6th most visited website in the United States, is organized into online communities, many of which discuss health topics. We monitored all r/STD (www.reddit.com/r/STD/) posts, where users can find “anything and everything STD related,” from its inception in November 2010 through February 2019.  

28 Jun

Posted at 12:20h in Author Interviews, JAMA, Pediatrics, Sexual Health, Technology
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: texting, sextingCamille Mori, B.A. (hons) M.Sc. candidate Clinical Psychology Program Determinants of Child Development Lab University of Calgary  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Sexting, which is the sharing of sexual messages, images, or videos over technological devices, has recently become a cause for concern among parents, teachers, and policy makers. However, the research on sexting among youth is still in early stages, and evidence of the risks associated with sexting is inconsistent. One way to resolve discrepancies in the field is to conduct a meta-analysis, which statistically summarizes existing research. We conducted a meta-analysis in order to examine the association between sexting and sexual activity (having sex, multiple sexual partners, and lack of contraception use). The associations between sexting and mental health related variables, including delinquent behaviour, substance use, and depression/anxiety were also examined.

04 Jun

Posted at 16:41h in Author Interviews, JAMA, Pediatrics, Sexual Health
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_49588" align="alignleft" width="135"]Monika K. Goyal, M.D., MSCE Assistant chief of Children’s Division Emergency Medicine and Trauma Services Dr. Goyal[/caption] Monika K. Goyal, M.D., MSCE Assistant chief of Children’s Division Emergency Medicine and Trauma Services  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Adolescents are disproportionately affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and often present to the emergency department for care. I have devoted almost 15 years of my career trying to improve the sexual health of teens through advocacy and the development of novel interventions in the emergency department to increase access to sexual health services for youths.

21 May

Posted at 12:33h in Author Interviews, CDC, OBGYNE, Pediatrics, Sexual Health, STD
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Lee Warner, PhD Chief of the Women’s Health and Fertility Branch Division of Reproductive Health CDC MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Previous research has found lower prevalence of condom use combined with the most effective reversible contraceptive methods among teens, but this is the first study to our knowledge to confirm the finding among sexually active teen mothers in the postpartum period. Our new paper finds that only 3 in 10 postpartum teen mothers report using condoms combined with a more effective contraceptive method (either long-acting reversible contraception or LARC or a non-LARC hormonal method). Dual use was 50 percent lower among LARC users compared with users of non-LARC hormonal methods.

19 May

Posted at 20:01h in Author Interviews, Psychological Science, Sexual Health
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof. Leif Edward Ottesen KennairDepartment of PsychologyFaculty of Social and Educational SciencesNorwegian University of Science and TechnologyProf. Leif Edward Ottesen Kennair Department of Psychology Faculty of Social and Educational Sciences Norwegian University of Science and Technology MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?   Response: Previous studies on intercourse frequency mainly focused on individual data, with no possibility to verify the perceived initiative or frequency. Couples data gave us that possibility. Previous studies had also mainly treated relationship quality as one measure. Therefore it was also interesting to distinguish between various aspects of relationship qualities to try to disentangle how these different aspects were related to frequency of intercourse. In addition we had some ideas about how a measure of sexual personality or sociosexuality—how interested in short-term sex one is—might be relevant for compromise within the relationship?

16 Apr

Posted at 01:48h in Author Interviews, HIV, Microbiome, PLoS, Sexual Health
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_48583" align="alignleft" width="98"]Brent E. Palmer, PhDAssociate Professor of MedicineDirector, ClinImmune and ACI/ID Flow Cytometry FacilityDivision of Allergy and Clinical ImmunologyAurora, Colorado 80045 Brent Palmer[/caption] Brent E. Palmer, PhD Associate Professor of Medicine Director, ClinImmune and ACI/ID Flow Cytometry Facility Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology University of Colorado Anschutz Medical College Aurora, Colorado 80045  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?  Response: Previous studies showed that in western populations, men who have sex with men (MSM) have a distinct gut microbiome composition when compared with men who have sex with women (MSW). We wanted to understand how these microbiome differences in MSM could impact their immune system. To test this, we transferred feces from healthy MSW and MSM to gnotobiotic (germ-free) mice and examined the immune system in the mice post-transplant. In mice that received transfers from MSM, there were higher frequencies of activated T cells in gut tissues, which are the primary targets of HIV. This result suggested that gut microbes associated with MSM sexual behavior may actually contribute to HIV transmission by driving activation of HIV target cells. In fact, when we stimulated human gut derived cells with gut microbes isolated from MSM and MSW, cells that were stimulated with microbes from MSM were infected at a higher rate.