Practice safe sex this Valentines

HIV/AIDS, Sexual Health and Hepatitis C co-ordinator Patrick Martin is helping promote International Condom Day.

Photo submitted

BUNDABERG sexual health professionals are determined to ensure all that is shared on Valentine’s Day is love.

The day of romance also coincides with International Condom Day.

During the week Bundaberg Hospital’s Sexual Health Service will promote the importance of using condoms and water-based lubricant to help reduce the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

“There continues to be a significant rise in new HIV and other viral infections such as herpes and genital warts,” HIV/AIDS, Sexual Health, Hepatitis C co-ordinator Patrick Martin said.

Each week 250 Queenslanders are diagnosed with chlamydia — one of the most common STIs.

“Young people particularly need to heed the safe sex message, as statistically they are more at risk from unprotected sex.

“A recurrent theme amongst young people who present for treatment is that ‘they (their partner) looked clean’. Your sexual health is your responsibility, so take control,” Mr Martin said.

Mr Martin said STIs were more prevalent in people aged between 15 and 24.

For more information visit www.health.qld.gov.au, www.istaysafe.com or www.qahc.org.au.

Sexual health tips

Use a condom.

Have a sexual health check.

Check your breasts or testicles regularly.

Vaccinate against Hepatitis B.

Always practise safe sex.