Crystal methamphetamine use and sexually transmitted infection: the importance of sexual history taking

Crystal methamphetamine (MA) use is associated with sexual behaviors that increase the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Sexual history-taking and screening for sexually transmitted infections can be a powerful way for primary care clinicians to identify and address crystal meth and other substance abuse problems. The reverse is also true: patients with known substance abuse or mental health problems may benefit greatly from careful sexual health evaluation and counseling. As the majority of STIs have no noticeable symptoms in their early stages, clinicians diagnosing crystal methamphetamine or other substance abuse problems, or taking care of the primary care needs of such patients must be familiar with sexual history-taking in order to identify patients needing a thorough exam and to ensure adequate STI screening. KEYWORDS. Chlamydia, crystal meth, gonorrhea, herpes, homosexuality, methamphetamine, men who have sex with men (MSM), sexual history, sexually transmitted infection (STI)