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STIs are more common than you think…for example, did you know:
- Since 2000, rates of Chlamydia notifications have tripled and in 2007 alone there were over 52,000 notifications. 13,000 (or 1 in 4) were recorded for males and females aged 19 or under?!
- New HIV diagnoses in Australia increased by 31% between 2000 and 2006?!
- 1 in 8 Australians has genital Herpes and most are unaware they have it?!
- In 2007 there were 8,172 notifications of Gonorrhea - indicating a rise of over 75% in the last 10 years?!
The most common way sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are transmitted is through vaginal, anal or oral sex without a condom. If you have unprotected sex a simple test is all you need to ensure you are in the clear.
Some STIs (like Chlamydia for example), don’t always show symptoms. Some can even lie dormant for years and, if left unchecked, can cause pelvic inflammatory disease which in turn can lead to infertility. So even if you don’t have any obvious signs, never assume you’re off the hook. On the other hand, just because you’ve got an itch it doesn’t necessarily mean you have an STI.
To make sure your sexual health gets the stamp of approval, it’s worth checking it out at either your Marie Stopes International centre, local family planning clinic or by visiting your doctor, as symptoms may vary from person to person. |
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- It is very important that both/all current partners receive the same treatment at the same time; other wise you may continue to pass on the infection back and forth between you. All of your previous sexual partners whom you feel may be at risk should also be checked and treated.
- Only condoms offer dual protection against both STIs and unplanned pregnancy.
- Women: Don’t forget your regular breast checks and be sure to have a pap smear every two years.
- Men: Don’t forget your regular testicular checks.
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