I will add here that although I'm only 55, I have osteoporosis. This is, of course, the brittle bone condition that usually comes only in old age. In my case, the doctor who treated me said the primary cause was multiple steriod injections in my lower spine over several years to treat sciatica.

What does this have to do with PrEP?

My primary care doctor told me I should not take Kaletra because it is associated with bone loss conditions including osteopenia and osteoporosis. He did give me a prescription for Kaletra for PEP (post-exposure prohylaxis). Since Kaletra is the only drug approved for PrEP, this may be an issue for some.

Having said that much, I'll explain further. My own life these last few years has been in such tumult that sex has been on the back burner, more or less theoretical than actual. Too many issues, too little time, too much stress, etc. Now I'm dealing with glaucoma and quite severe cataracts. Precocious once again, my eye doctor says I'm "young with old person eyes." So, I can no longer drive at night. It's getting worse daily, and I hope to have surgery sooner rather than later. I digress.

However, I ended my co-dependent relationship, I'm about to sell my too-big house, and I've moved into the city. When I can see again, unless someone wants to play in the dark, and I feel ready - not before - I expect to resume the same practices I did in the 90s, before all the "cocktail" drugs.

That means not necessarily lots of men or lots of sex, but instead seeking out the best possible experiences. Back then as well as now, I'd already been around the block and had at least a taste of most things in gay sex, so for me it's best to explore more deeply the type of men and experiences where something more powerful and moving could happen, even if just for a few minutes, an hour, a night, or whatever.

As for risk, for me it's case by case and never a rule of one thing for all experiences, men, or situations.

To be clear, I don't advise this for anyone else. It's just what has worked best for me since I came out in the 80s, just as the HIV/AIDS era was beginning.

As always, I urge people to educate themselves and make informed, knowledgeable choices. Also, don't get swept away in the moment (or under the influence of whatever) and do something other than what you have chosen. You always have the right to say yes or to say no.

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I wish there was a "like" or "applause" feature on these boards - because this statement is the key -

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Well, I originally planned to post this in "Dirty Stories" but it's actually better posted here, 'cause it wasn't so dirty, but I cannot deny it was HOT. I have not barebacked in over 30 years; I don't have a regular partner. Last month I got to know a couple (both tops) around my age who have navigated this epidemic with the same caution. They enjoy their play so they went through the standard protocol of serial HIV tests before and during the first several months of being on PrEP. And they hadn't been with anyone in months, decreasing likelihood of other STIs. These guys were more than willing to play either with or without condoms. After giving it some thought, I decided to play condomless. On the bed, on the floor, tag-teamed in the sling, OMG it was great. First load delivered directly inside in 30 years. Oooh (or is that Ooozze).

But it was done with some research, background, and confidence. I don't have plans to start PrEP myself, so that might be the last time it happens. But it was a memorable experience, for sure.

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Good for you, NakedAl. Sounds like you made a thoughtful choice, knew what you were doing, and had a great time!

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It sounds like you really thought it out -

There is always some risk for anything (I know a number of guys that will not suck cock without a condom) but it seems like you made sure to limit your risk and enjoy it -

And I understand the temptation - it has been years and would be damn fun to do again....

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For many years, it was condoms only, then mostly, now, it all depends on the venue, whether a stranger or how horny I am and have an insatiable urge to be barebacked.

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