Men who have sex with men (MSM) have been greatly affected by HIV infection. Indeed in France, the highest HIV incidence rate was estimated in 2008 at 1% in this population. In this context, it is essential, more than ever, to have in-depth knowledge of the sexual behavior and lifestyles of the MSM population in order to implement efficient prevention programs. Obtaining such data is not easy because of the difficulty in understanding and describing the MSM population both as a whole and in all its diversity.Since its creation in 1985, the Gay Press Surveys (EPG) have focused on the comprehensive approach of the impact of HIV medical advances, patterns of socialization and changes in the homosexuality’s representations on preventive sexual practices. In the last Gays and Lesbians Press Survey conducted in 2011, 10,448 MSM were recruited on a voluntary basis. With the diversification of recruitment methods including community websites, new socio-demographic and sexual profiles were described in addition to those usually recruited. The updating of the at-risk sexual indicators took into account the HIV therapeutic advances and the profane practices of prevention. A high level of HIV exposure among MSM was still observed, depending on the respondents’ HIV serological status and level of education. A generational approach of the last seven EPGs highlighted a strong period effect suggesting that sexual behaviors in MSM are influenced more by contextual than generational factors.To progress in ending the HIV epidemic, it is essential to continue to monitor sexual and preventive behaviors among MSM. Behavioral surveillance has to maintain consistency in methods and measures over time but needs to successfully adapt to follow new and emerging practices.