Men's use of sexual health services in Cork and Kerry remains low despite the fact that many males do not engage in safe sex practices, a new study has found.
A new study from the Health Service Executive (HSE) that examined the two counties found that less than one in four men attend a GP for sexual health reasons, while fewer than 10 per cent attended alternative health providers such as STI clinics or family planning clinics.
The research indicates that almost one in five men questioned for the study admitted to never using a condom when engaging in sex with a casual partner.
In addition, 90 per cent of respondents said they didn't use protection when receiving oral sex from a stranger, while 42 per cent of respondents said that they refused to use protection when having anal sex.
Some 40 per cent of respondents said that drink and drugs influenced their decision not to use protection when having sex, while a quarter cited the expense of buying condoms.
The study found that lack of awareness as to how to access sexual health services together with embarrassment at being seen attending such services were preventing a larger number of males from accessing services.
Those who used the services reported a high level of satisfaction and thought that services catered well for men. Testicular examinations and STI screening were the main reasons identified for service usage by respondents.
Responding to the research, the HSE has unveiled a sexual health awareness campaign specifically targeting young working men working in the construction industry.
