SEX CHECK

STI rates are climbing - here's why it's crucial to test regularly

- Elaine Obran

Whether it’s a long-term love, first date, situationship or, dare we say, ex, the chat around STIs should sit just as high on the importance totem as knowing your partner's star sign and rising moon.

Spoiler alert: far too often this isn’t the case.

While awareness surrounding the importance of testing and protection have improved within the past decade, stigmas and barriers surrounding sexual health remain. So much so that within Australia STI rates have seen a steady incline.

So what can we do to encourage people, both young and old, to get freaky between the sheets without bringing it to the streets?

According to Dr Sara Whitburn, the medical director at Sexual Health Victoria and chair of the RACGP Sexual Health special interest group, although it can be awkward to discuss, STI testing is one of the quickest and easiest ways to protect your health and that of others.

Here, we spread awareness on how to do exactly that...

SO WHAT'S WITH THE INCREASING STI RATES?

When it comes to the most common STIs in Australia, chlamydia continues to hold the top spot, followed by gonorrhoea and, more recently, syphilis.