cktimes.ca Archives: What Parents Need to Know About Sexually Transmitted Infections
Originally posted on: Tuesday, January 31, 2012Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) are an issue of growing concern for people living in the area of Chatham-Kent. Those most likely to contract an STI are youth between the ages of 15-24 who engage in unsafe sexual activities, putting them at an increased risk for HIV/AIDS, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Genital Herpes and Human Papillomavirus (Genital Warts), to name a few.
Most people have heard of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), the STI that eventually leads to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). The HIV virus is spread through body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids and breast milk. Without proper treatment, HIV will eventually attack the body’s immune system resulting in AIDS, leaving the individual prone to illness and infection and eventually death.
The most common STI among 15-24 year olds is Chlamydia. This infection is of great concern for two reasons. First, it is a disease that is affecting a large number of youth in Chatham-Kent,(167 cases ages 15-24 in 2011) and secondly, over half of those with the disease have no symptoms, or they may notice a yellow discharge from the penis or vagina, abdominal pain or burning with urination. Unlike many STI’s, Chlamydia can be cured. Medication can be prescribed by a health care practitioner.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a lifelong infection that presents itself as painful blisters in the genital area. HSV is a unique STI in that the virus takes two forms, HSV-1 and HSV-2. If you have ever had a cold sore, chances are you have the HSV-1 in your system. HSV-2 is more commonly referred to as Genital Herpes. If you have a cold sore, (HSV-1), the virus can be passed to the genitals through oral sex. This STI is generally spread by direct contact with the open sores during vaginal, oral or anal sex. Once a person has contracted Herpes, it remains in their system forever. It can be transmitted at any time whether lesions are present or not, so condoms must be used at all times.
Human Papillomavirus, also known as genital warts, is an STI affecting many youth in this area. This STI presents itself as small growths in the genital or anal area, spread mainly through sex or close skin-to-skin contact. Although there are several methods for treating the infection, treatment doesn’t always equal to a cure. Those exposed to the STI may have the virus in their system forever and it can cause cancer of the cervix in women. Condoms can only protect against HPV if the affected area is completely covered. There is a vaccine now that can be given to youth to prevent getting cervical cancer in women.
Parents have an important role to play in making sure the risks of sex are made clear to their children at an early age. Although abstinence is the ideal choice, it is not always a reality. This is why parents need to talk to their children about sex and how to make wise decisions. The first step involves making yourself approachable. Ideally it is best not to have one big talk on the issue, but rather to discuss the issue whenever possible. Children will be more open to discuss sexuality issues and ask questions if it becomes a normal part of their conversation in the home. Second, be a positive role model. Make clear your values and beliefs regarding sex to help guide your child when faced with difficult decisions. For example, discuss the right time for having sex and ways of dealing with peer pressure. Third, don’t be afraid to discuss awkward issues. This includes talking about abstinence, condom use, limiting sexual partners and engaging in less risky sexual activities such as kissing and cuddling. Talking with your child about sexuality does not promote sexual behavior, but rather equips your child with the knowledge, skills and sense of responsibility to make wise choices when you aren’t around.
For more information please contact the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit at 519.355.1071.
