STDs - The passion killers

Sexually transmitted infections are mainly passed on during sex but occasionally through casual contact, by sharing needles, or from mother to baby during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding.

There are now more than 30. Most are as old as sex itself, just ask any Roman emperor or medieval king. But the most dangerous, Aids, was recognised only in 1981.

The majority of STIs have no vaccine to prevent them but most can be treated fairly quickly and easily. If left untreated, unpleasant symptoms and long term damage can occur.

Even though effective antibiotics are freely available, many STIs are on the increase in New Zealand. Despite constant targeting of safer sex messages, 60% of STIs occur in people under 25. Young people are bombarded in the media with confusing and mixed messages about sex, and many do not get the right knowledge and services to stay safe. In one study, 72% of young women wrongly thought the contraceptive pill protected them from STIs.

Although most people do experience STI symptoms, some infections such as chlamydia can go unnoticed. Symptoms to be aware of are unusual lumps or sores, itching, pain when having a pee or unusual discharge.

Unfortunately, only one in 10 with an STI actually seeks medical advice, tells their partner or gets regular check-ups. You shouldn't fear check-ups, you won't be judged by health professionals and confidentiality is assured. Getting any unusual symptoms checked early and diagnosed means they are easier to treat. Women can often have similar symptoms that are not caused by STIs, so a correct diagnosis is often a big relief.

Avoiding or reducing your risk, involves choosing no sexual contact, having sex only within a long term, solid relationship with an uninfected partner, correctly using condoms  very effective but not fully protective against some infections  or having routine check-ups if sexually active.

Women should have regular cervical smears and the new HPV vaccination, available for girls age 12 and over, offers some protection.

If you think you might have been exposed to an STI, go to a GP, sexual health clinic or Family Planning clinic. It is important to understand and recognise symptoms of STIs, so it is best to get the right advice from someone you feel comfortable with. Consider getting tested before sexual contact begins in a new relationship. An STI is something no one wants but the picture in New Zealand is not pretty.

Clinical Director of the Auckland Sexual Health Clinic Dr Nicky Perkins says: "Condoms are highly protective when used exactly as directed." National Medical Advisor of Family Planning Dr Christine Roke says: "While many practice safer sex, they don't always consider the importance of using condoms every time."

Find out more at www.everybody.co.nz, www.familyplanning.org.nz and www.hubba.co.nz.

Barbara Docherty is a registered nurse and clinical lecturer at the University of Auckland School of Nursing.