Bugchasing
Bugchasing (pronounced: /bʌgˈtʃeɪsɪŋ/) is a term used within the LGBTQ+ community, specifically among men who have sex with men (MSM). It refers to the practice of individuals who deliberately seek to contract HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This practice is often associated with a subculture known as the "bareback" community, which promotes unprotected sex.
Etymology
The term "bugchasing" is derived from the slang term "bug" for a disease, specifically HIV, and "chasing" which refers to the act of pursuing or seeking. The term first appeared in the late 1990s and early 2000s, coinciding with the rise of the internet and online forums where individuals could anonymously discuss such practices.
Related Terms
- Giftgiving: This is the counterpart to bugchasing, where an individual, known as a "giftgiver," deliberately attempts to transmit HIV or another STI to a bugchaser.
- Barebacking: This refers to the practice of having sexual intercourse without the use of condoms, which increases the risk of transmitting STIs.
- Seroconversion: This is the process by which a person who was previously negative for HIV becomes positive after exposure to the virus.
Health Risks
Bugchasing carries significant health risks, including the potential for contracting HIV and other STIs. Despite advances in treatment, HIV remains a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Other STIs can also have serious health consequences, including infertility, cancer, and increased risk of acquiring other STIs.
Psychological Aspects
The motivations behind bugchasing are complex and can include a desire for community and belonging, thrill-seeking behavior, and a fatalistic attitude towards health and life. Mental health professionals stress the importance of understanding these motivations in order to provide effective prevention and treatment strategies.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bugchasing
- Wikipedia's article - Bugchasing
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