“A lot of women and men choose to make New Years resolutions to give up smoking, lose weight or get fit – why not add getting the all clear on your sexual health to that list,” Jill Michelson, Acting Australian CEO of Marie Stopes International, said.
The organisation’s call came as the number of Chlamydia notifications for 2007 were the highest on record.[1]
“Chlamydia notifications for 2007 have totalled nearly 48,000 – a frightening figure when you compare it to the 17,000 notifications in 2000.” Ms Michelson said.
“As at December 2007, Queensland had the highest number of notifications (12,282), followed closely by NSW (11,272) and Victoria (10,170).”
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 Michelson.
“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 Michelson
"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.
“Make it a New Year’s Resolution to keep your sexual health and you partners in the clear.”
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 38 countries.
For media enquiries contact: Madryn Sanderson, 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
