Sexual Health

Having a happy, respectful and loving sexual relationship can be one of the most pleasurable and healthy aspects of a man’s life. But there are a couple of important things that men should be aware of.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Many people find sexually transmitted infections – STIs (also known as sexually transmitted diseases or STDs) very difficult to discuss, but it is vital that you have as much information as possible to allow you to make informed choices.

Particularly among older New Zealanders this can be an important concern, where men are still less likely to use a condom when having casual sex.

Don’t be embarrassed to discuss your concerns with a doctor as this may be your opportunity to safeguard your future health. Both men and women should have regular sexual health check-ups, particularly if they have more than one sexual partner.

Safer sex reduces the risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted infection. It includes:

- using a condom during intercourse; and
- abstaining from sex if you or your partner has a sexually transmitted infection or symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection. Remember, some STIs do not show any symptoms (such as Chlamydia) so the only way to find out if you’ve got one is to have an STI check up.

STI check-ups don’t take long. A quick check and treatment if necessary can prevent your or your partner’s sexual health from being seriously affected by STIs. Check-ups have proven to be highly effective and in some cases, early screening has literally saved lives. If left untreated, some STIs can lead to more serious health problems such as infertility.

If you are diagnosed with an STI/STD:

- avoid sex until the STI/STD has been treated and has gone away;
- always use condoms if you have sex; and
- make sure your partner is checked out and cleared of infection before you have sex again.
- Practicing safer sex will help protect both men’s and women’s sexual health. For more information on STIs visit www.ashs.org.nz

Reproductive Health

There can be many misconceptions about sexual health and in particular reproductive health. The best thing that you can is to make sure that you are up to date with the latest information and procedures and speak to your GP if you have any questions.

For further information visit: www.fertilityassociates.co.nz