Sexual health is about looking after our bodies. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have higher rates of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and blood-borne viruses (BBVs). It's important to be informed so you can stop people in your community from getting sick.
The Young Deadly Free project aims to reduce rates of STIs and BBVs transmission in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities by educating and encouraging regular testing. The website provides resources for young people, parents, Elders, and health professionals.
What is an STI?
STI stands for sexually transmissible infection. This is an infection that you can get from having sex with someone who has that infection. You may have heard of chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis; these are all examples of STIs.
What is a BBV?
A BBV is a blood-borne virus. You can get this virus if the blood, semen or vaginal fluid from someone with that virus gets into your blood. This can happen during sex, or by sharing drug injecting equipment. HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C are examples of BBVs.
Using condoms
Using condoms helps to reduce the risk of transmitting STIs and BBVs.
Sometimes there are assumptions about safe sex. These can include assumptions such as, it's up to the woman to remember to use contraceptives or, that the man should supply the condoms. This can stop us from having proper conversations with each other before having sex about what safe sex means for each of us.
Other forms of contraception may reduce the chance of pregnancy, but it doesn't stop the transmission of STIs. Only condoms do that.
Condom use is not gender specific. It's important to openly discuss what is safe, comfortable and enjoyable for everyone involved, not just one person.
Sexual health checks - when was the last time you got tested?
Sex and our sexual health and wellbeing are things we should not be afraid to talk about or ask help for. There is no stigma and no shame in getting regular sexual health checks.
STIs and BBVs don't always have symptoms or signs. Getting tested is the only way of knowing if you have an STI or BBV.
You should have an STI and BBV check every 6-12 months or when you have a new sexual partner.
If you're due for a check-up, call up your local clinic and book your test today. Have a yarn with your doctor and ask for a sexual health test when you get your annual 715 Health Check.
715 Health Checks are free at Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHOs) across Australia and bulk billing clinics.
Remember, there is no shame in getting tested. It could save you a lot of pain in the long run!
By caring for your own sexual health, using condoms and getting regular STI and BBV tests you're also caring for the wellbeing of your mob.
Learn more information about sexual health on our website. Watch some animations from the Young Deadly Free to see how you can help knock out STIs and BBVs.
