“This September, instead of ‘spring cleaning’ your cupboards, why not ‘spring clean’ your sexual health and get the all clear with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) check up,” said Suzanne Dvorak, Australian CEO of Marie Stopes International.
The organisation’s call came as the number of chlamydia notifications to date this year indicate a significant increase on 2006 notifications.[1]
“Chlamydia notifications in 2006 totalled over 47,000 which is a frightening figure in itself,” Ms Dvorak said.
“Queensland had the highest number of notifications (12,244), followed closely by NSW (11,918) and Victoria (9,981).
“However, when we look at notifications for the first half of 2007, we see an increase of over 2,000 cases nationally when compared to the same period of time for the previous year.
“Unfortunately this would indicate that we are set for yet another record breaking year of Chlamydia.”
Chlamydia is an infection spread through sexual intercourse (vaginal and anal) and is referred to as ‘the silent STI’, given that most people carry the infection without displaying any symptoms. The infection affects both men and women, and all ages are at risk.
“Chlamydia is believed to be the leading cause of infertility in women, and has been linked to infertility in men,” said Ms Dvorak.
“These complications are preventable if diagnosed and treated early, but have the potential to create a very serious public health issue if ignored.”
A recent survey conducted on 200 of Marie Stopes International’s female clients around Australia found that only 35% of clients had been tested for STIs in the past, with 129 saying they had never had an STI check-up.
“Having regular STI check-ups and wearing condoms is the only way to ensure your sexual health remains STI free,” said Ms Dvorak.
"It is also vital that sexually active women and men learn how to identify the symptoms of STIs, and be aware that some STIs can be carried without displaying any obvious signs of infection.”
To enquire about STI check-ups, visit your doctor or call Marie Stopes International on Freecall: 1800 003 707 (ends)
Marie Stopes International is a not-for-profit sexual and reproductive healthcare provider, with 10 centres in the ACT, Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales and Western Australia. The organisation offers a range of services, including abortion, vasectomy, sexually transmitted infection check-ups and contraception. Surplus proceeds from Australian activities support the work of Marie Stopes International Partnerships, which delivers sexual and reproductive health services to more than four million people in over 37 countries.
For media enquiries contact: Samantha Smith, Public Relations 0421 097 150
[1]National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System. Number of notifications of Chlamydial infection*, Australia, in the period of 1991 to 2006 and year-to-date notifications for 2007
