Being Queer Means Being Responsible — For Yourself and for Others
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Talking about HIV or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has never been easy.
For decades, silence, shame, and stigma kept these conversations in the dark. But today, we’re rewriting that story. We have access to accurate information, open-minded communities, and technology that makes education and care more accessible than ever. Sexual health isn’t a secret anymore—it’s part of the freedom we’ve fought for.
This shift matters because knowledge isn’t just power—it’s protection.
PrEP Is Evolving — and So Should Our Conversations
©hivpoint
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medicine that can be taken as HIV prevention prior to potential exposure to the virus. In Finland, PrEP treatment is now free of charge for customers who have access to Finnish public health care system and who meet the criteria for PrEP treatment.
But Also Here’s what’s new:
Lenacapavir — a twice-a-year injection recently endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
Cabotegravir — approved in Mexico and several other countries, offering protection with just one shot every two months.
The first long-acting injectable HIV treatment, has been approved for use by the FDA. FG Trade/Getty Images
These long-acting options are changing the game, especially for people who find it hard to stick to a daily routine or want more privacy when it comes to their prevention choices.
But let’s be real about something:
PrEP prevents HIV, not other STIs.
Condoms still matter.
The best combo? PrEP + Condoms — double protection, double peace of mind.
Because taking care of yourself doesn’t kill the vibe—it keeps it alive.
Sexual Health Is About Freedom, Not Fear
Whether it’s a date on Grindr, a sauna night in Helsinki, or a spontaneous encounter while traveling, sexual connection is part of our queer joy. What’s important is how we handle it—with honesty, care, and respect.
Being responsible isn’t boring. It’s about owning your body, your choices, and the impact you have on others. It’s about making sure pleasure and safety can exist in the same space.
If You’re in Finland, You’re Not Alone
Finland offers free, confidential, and LGBTQ+-friendly resources that everyone should know about:
HIV Point — free and anonymous HIV & STI testing run by professionals who truly get it. Their main office is in Kalasatama, Helsinki, and they’re also active online: @hivpoint.
Positiiviset – HIV Finland — a support and advocacy organization providing community, counseling, and safe spaces for people living with HIV. Check them out at @positiiviset_hivfinland.
If you’re visiting or living here, know that help is easy to find. These organizations are not just clinics—they’re part of the community.
The Bottom Line
Getting tested, asking questions, starting PrEP, using condoms—none of this should feel heavy. It’s an act of self-love, a way to protect the people you connect with, and a powerful reminder that being queer also means taking care of your community.
Today we have everything: pills, injections, condoms, testing, support groups, and endless information. The tools are there. The choice is ours.
Let’s keep talking. Let’s keep learning. Let’s keep loving—responsibly.
