Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs) are common and can have serious consequences if left untreated. One prevalent STI is chlamydia, which often shows no symptoms. Detecting and treating it early is essential to prevent its spread to others and reduce complications, such as infertility. It’s important to discuss sexual history openly and without judgment to assess the risk and recommend appropriate screening tests for STIs.
Different age groups and sexual behaviours can influence the risk of STIs, so screening recommendations vary. For young sexually active individuals up to 29 years of age, screening for chlamydia is recommended due to its high prevalence. Men who have sex with men (MSM) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are at higher risk and should also be screened for various STIs.
Contact tracing is crucial to stop the spread of STIs. Diagnosing clinicians should help patients notify their current and past partners about potential exposure. There are online partner notification services available for this purpose.
Regular screening, early detection, and treatment are essential for managing STIs and preventing their spread within the community. Pregnant women and high-risk individuals should be especially vigilant in getting tested and treated promptly to protect their health and that of their partners and children.
