Perception of men with mental disorders about risk and self-care for sexually transmitted diseases

Abstract

Recent studies have shown high rates of sexually transmitted infections (STI) among people with mental disorders in Brazil. In order to contribute to the enhancement of preventive actions for this population, this work analyzed the perceptions of men with mental disorders of the risk and self-care regarding STIs. Open in-depth interviews on self-care and sexual health issues were held with 22 men with mental disorders. Data were examined based on the structural analysis of narration. The results showed that respondents know little about the STIs. Despite recognizing the existence of risk in sexual relations, the use of condoms was rare. The main obstacle to their use was their representation that people who appear healthy do not present risks. Among those who did use condoms, this conduct was motivated by the proximity of experiences in which STIs were contracted. However, this use was hampered by their belief that the condom diminishes the pleasure and also by the use of alcohol and drugs. Some do not find meaning in self-care, a feeling associated to the context of social exclusion. There were also situations in which the men preferred to run the risk of becoming infected. The promotion of sexual health in this population is urgent, one able to consider the psychosocial aspects involved in self-care.