The Better2Know Blog

Discussing STIs with a past or present partner is never going to be an enjoyable conversation, but it is essential. Sharing your STI status is an important part of stopping the chain of infection and protecting both your and your partner’s health. During these difficult conversations, it is normal for emotions to run high, so here are some tips on how to try to ease the process.

Hepatitis A, B and C are the most common forms of Hepatitis found in Australia. All three types of Hepatitis affect the liver, causing inflammation, pain and swelling. However, how each type is transmitted, treated and the seriousness of the infection differs.

While it is true that urinary tract infections (UTIs) are most common among women, men can also develop them. UTIs can be very painful and uncomfortable but can be easily treated. Here, we discuss the symptoms, causes and treatments for UTIs in men.

The good news is that HIV is far less common now than it once was. 2018 saw the lowest number of new HIV diagnoses in over two decades in Australia – a country that has been praised as a leader in HIV prevention. However, 2019 saw an increase in diagnoses, with a growing proportion among heterosexual Australians.

Unfortunately, once you catch Herpes, there is no getting rid of it. However, a new study may have revealed what causes recurrence of the virus and could lead to new methods of prevention.

Mycoplasma is among the most common STIs in Australia, affecting both men and women. It is often treated with antibiotics; however, a recent study has shown that this course of treatment is leading to the infection becoming increasingly antibiotic-resistant, with fears that it could turn into a ‘super bug’.

Syphilis cases are on the rise in Victoria, with the number of cases almost tripling since 2014. The state recorded 1316 cases of Syphilis in 2020 compared to 1678 cases in 2019, though bearing in mind that screenings for Syphilis plummeted by almost 70% during the pandemic. This means that the number of cases in 2020 is likely to be much higher. Whether or not you live in Victoria, getting a Syphilis test is a good idea. 

South Australia has become the last Australian state to decriminalise abortion. Though legal hurdles and inconsistencies in rules and regulations between the states persist, the recent passage of The Termination of Pregnancy Bill in SA signifies an important step in women’s sexual and reproductive healthcare.

Frequent screenings for cervical cancer can lead to early detection, prevent cancer from developing and save lives. Despite the importance, the number of those getting tested for cervical cancer in Australia has drastically declined over the past year.

General STI rates have seen a dramatic increase in recent years, both in Australia and other parts of the developed world. This steep rise in diagnoses can largely be attributed to increases in number and frequency of STI testing, and the increased accuracy of those tests. Societal changes such as the increased popularity of online dating and dating apps have also had implications for the spread of STIs.