Revellers urged to look after sexual health during party season

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Health experts in the North West are urging people to look after their sexual health over the Christmas party season.

Increased alcohol consumption and the general festive spirit can lead to an increase in the number of people having unplanned and unsafe sex. Many are gambling with the risks of unwanted pregnancy and catching sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis C, hepatitis B, syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia and HIV.

Infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and genital herpes do not always have visible symptoms which mean people may be unaware they are infected and can pass the infection on to others. Without prompt treatment, there can be complications later in life such as infertility.

Professor Qutub Syed, Director, HPA North West, said: 'Alcohol and drugs can affect sexual health by reducing inhibitions, leading people to take risks that they might later regret. We know nationally young people aged 16-25 years have the highest rates for STIs and we want to remind young people across the NW region to look after their health during the festive season.

“Safe sex – that is using a condom with all new or casual sexual partners –is the surest way to ensure you do not become infected with a sexually transmitted infection. Sexual health is everyone’s responsibility. It is vital that people take responsibility for their own sexual health through practising safer sex and having regular check-ups.

“The message is clear – enjoy the party season this Christmas and New Year, but stay safe and look after your sexual health.”