Differences in Sexual Health of Mexican Gay and Bisexual Youth and Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Objective: compare and analyze the implications of COVID-19 on the sexual health of Mexican gay and bisexual young and adult men (GBM). Method: an online survey with 1001 GBM participants. Information was collected on sexual desire, use of mobile applications, sexual practices during the pandemic, and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from August to October 2020. Young participants were compared with adults. Results: Young GBM reported more challenges to their sexual health in the pandemic. There was an increase in sexual desire, mobile applications, and a decrease in access to STIs prevention supplies. Discussion: Implications for sexual health policies for these groups during health contingencies are discussed.

Keywords:

• Gay youth
• gay adults
• bisexual men
• COVID-19
• sexual health

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.

Notes

1 “Homosexual” is a common way to refer to men who prefer to relate with people of their same-sex and gender in Mexico.

Additional information

Funding

This study was funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada through a Partnership Grant [SSHRC #895-2018-1000].