Sexual Health Week 2009 in Australia

William Atkins
Monday, 09 November 2009 18:09

Science - Health

The survey of Australian adults, as part of SHW2009, found that 51% of women reported having an STI check-up.

However, only 36% of men reported ever having at least one STI check-up.

Ms. Michelson commented, “Australians just don't seem to be getting the message (that) regular STI check-ups and condom usage are the only way to safeguard your sexual health.” [News.com.au]

The website of Sexual Health Week 2009 states it “… aims to educate and empower males and females to take control of their sexual health.

The website states, "This Sexual Health Week, we're calling on all Australians to do their bit for the country's sexual health and have an STI check-up.”

And, "STIs and unplanned pregnancy are key health issues that affect many Australians, and we're hoping ... we can raise the bar when it comes to the level of sexual health knowledge out there, and at the same time decrease the statistics."

The five primary goals of Sexual Health Week 2009 are:

1.    Decrease the rates of sexually transmitted infections in Australia

2.    Encourage regular sexual health check ups

3.    Remove the stigma surrounding sexually transmitted infections and sexual health

4.    Promote awareness of the many contraceptive options available

5.    Reinforce the importance of condom usage and practicing safe sex at all times

The organizers of Sexual Health Week 2009 in Australia are: Marie Stopes International, Family Planning Queensland, and Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT.