A joint initiative supported by sexual and reproductive healthcare providers Marie Stopes International, Sexual Health and Family Planning Australia (SH & FPA), the Asian Pacific Council on Contraception (APCOC) and Bayer Schering Pharma, the theme for the day is ‘Live your life before you start another’. The day encourages young people to make an informed choice in relation to contraception and parenthood in order to allow them to be empowered to live their life to the full.
Professor Khoo from APCOC said, “Sexual behaviour and hormonal changes during adolescence can have far-reaching consequences in later life; so we are reminding all young people on World Contraception Day to be aware of the need for contraception and protection against sexually-transmitted infections if they plan to become sexually active.”
Also highlighted on World Contraception Day is the increase in STIs, particularly Chlamydia which hit a record high of 47,1042 notifications in 2006, over half of which were amongst the 15-24 year old age group.2
In protecting themselves from an unplanned pregnancy, young people are encouraged on World Contraception Day to use contraception every time they have sex.
Jill Michelson, Acting CEO of Marie Stopes International explains, “Being in control of your fertility empowers you to choose when you become a parent, rather than letting it happen by chance.”
When choosing contraception, Dr Kathy McNamee from SH & FPA explains, “The only form of contraception that gives you protection against both STIs and pregnancy is a condom. STIs such as Chlamydia are very common among young people, with many showing no symptoms. If left untreated, Chlamydia can lead to infertility, so if you’ve had unprotected sex in the past, get tested by a doctor.”
It’s important that you are aware of your sexual health and discuss this regularly with a health professional.
For more information on World Contraception Day, contraceptive options or to enquire about STI check ups, visit www.your-life.com.au
Notes
[1] Richters J, Grulich AE, de Visser RO, Smith AMA & Rissel CE 2003. Contraceptive practices among a Representative sample of women. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health 27 (2):210-6.
2 Notifications of SELECTED DISEASE by Age Group and Sex. 2006. Aust Govt Dept Health and Ageing. http://www9.health.gov.au/cda/Source/Rpt_5.cfm
