Factors Associated with Condom Use among a Sample of Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) Residing in Rural Oklahoma. Issue 13 (9th November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Giano, Zachary; Kavanaugh, Katherine E.; Durham, André R.; Currin, Joseph M.; Wheeler, Denna L.; Croff, Julie M.; Hubach, Randolph D.
• Is Part Of: Journal of homosexuality. Volume 67:Issue 13(2020)
• Page Start: 1881
• Page End: 1901
• Publication Date: 2020-11-09
• Subjects: Men who have sex with men -- HIV prevention -- sexual health -- rural health; Homosexuality -- Periodicals; 306.766
• DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2019.1616430
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0091-8369

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Public health literature often neglects populations from rural communities, particularly with men who have sex with men (MSM). Although HIV/STI infections are decreasing slightly, there is an increase within rural MSM, thus opening the door for further research on condom use behavior in a rural context. In-depth interviews were conducted with 40 MSM in rural Oklahoma regarding their condom use and sexual behaviors. A qualitative analysis revealed five themes with respect to condom usage: physical discomfort of condoms, relationship trust, usage based on the type of sexual act, substance use, and knowledge of a partner's HIV/STI status. A sixth theme within the context of rural Oklahoma revealed participants' fear of physical/verbal abuse, hesitations seeking medical help due to confidentially issues, and general acknowledgment of the lack of education and resources available. Implications include increasing mobile testing locations and a push for marketing greater confidentially within health service providers.