Genitourinary Medicine (GUM) is a varied specialty primarily related to the treatment and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
A large part of the work is involved in the clinical management of patients with HIV infection at all stages of disease, including inpatient management. The work involves a number of non-infectious medical genital problems such as dermatoses. A number of GUM departments also offer other sexual health services such as contraception, colposcopy (for the diagnosis and treatment of cervical dysplasia) and sexual dysfunction. Doctors in this specialty work closely with colleagues in public health medicine, infectious diseases, clinical microbiology and obstetrics/gynaecology. They also work with marginalised groups for whom they frequently advocate as they may not have a voice of their own. Doctors in this specialty see lots of younger people. It is very rewarding to see patients (particularly our HIV positive patients) respond quickly to treatment. Also, as a specialty, GUM is fast changing and never boring.