The Allure of Embracing Discomfort

Actor Lukas Gage advocates for proactive sexual health management through regular STI testing and the use of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). In a June 17, 2026, feature by Men’s Health, Gage stated he lean[s] into the uncomfortable regarding medical screenings to normalize sexual health conversations and reduce the stigma associated with preventative care.

Gage’s public discussion of his health routine focuses on the removal of shame from the clinical process. He told Men’s Health that he views the act of addressing uncomfortable health topics as kind of sexy, framing medical diligence as a form of confidence and responsibility.

This approach aligns with broader public health efforts to increase the uptake of preventative medications and routine screenings among high-risk populations. By discussing his personal adherence to these protocols, Gage highlights the transition of sexual health from a reactive practice to a preventative one.

What is PrEP and how does it prevent HIV?

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, or PrEP, is a course of antiretroviral medication used to prevent HIV infection in people who are HIV-negative but at high risk of exposure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), PrEP is highly effective when taken as prescribed.

The CDC reports that PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% and reduces the risk of getting HIV from injection drug use by at least 74%. The medication works by creating a protective barrier of medicine in the bloodstream that prevents the virus from establishing a permanent infection if exposure occurs.

There are currently two primary delivery methods for PrEP in the United States. The first involves daily oral tablets, such as those containing tenofovir and emtricitabine. The second is a long-acting injectable medication, Cabotegravir, which is administered every two months by a healthcare provider.

Medical guidelines require individuals on PrEP to undergo HIV testing before starting the regimen and every three months thereafter. This ensures the patient remains HIV-negative, as taking PrEP while already infected can lead to drug resistance.

Why is regular STI testing necessary?

Regular screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is critical because many infections are asymptomatic. According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals can carry and transmit STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea without ever experiencing visible symptoms or physical discomfort.

Untreated STIs can lead to long-term health complications. For example, untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which may lead to infertility or ectopic pregnancy. In men, these infections can cause epididymitis, an inflammation of the tube that carries sperm.

The CDC recommends that sexually active adults get screened for STIs at least once a year. For those with multiple partners or who are in high-risk groups, the agency suggests testing every three to six months. This cadence allows for early detection and treatment, which prevents the further spread of infections within a community.

How does stigma affect sexual health outcomes?

The psychological barrier of stigma often prevents individuals from seeking necessary care. When sexual health is associated with shame, patients are more likely to delay testing or avoid discussing their risk factors with providers.

Gage’s assertion that he lean[s] into the uncomfortable addresses this specific barrier. By reframing the anxiety of a clinic visit as a positive act of self-care, he challenges the narrative that sexual health screenings are a source of embarrassment.

Public health data suggests that destigmatization increases screening rates. When preventative care is normalized, patients are more likely to be honest about their sexual history, allowing clinicians to provide more accurate screening panels and targeted preventative treatments.

What are the current guidelines for sexual wellness?

Current medical standards emphasize a comprehensive approach to sexual wellness that combines barrier methods, pharmaceutical prevention, and consistent testing. Health organizations recommend the following protocols for those seeking a proactive health strategy:

While PrEP is highly effective against HIV, it does not protect against other STIs. This distinction makes the regular testing mentioned by Gage a necessary complement to pharmaceutical prevention.

The integration of these practices reduces the overall community viral load and lowers the incidence of preventable infections. By treating sexual health as a standard part of general wellness, individuals can mitigate long-term health risks while maintaining a transparent relationship with their healthcare providers.