Start Date: February 8, 2014
End Date: February 12, 2014
Iqaluit, NU
45 sec
February 12th is Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Day in Canada, and is recognized as a day to promote healthy sexuality by raising awareness of sexual health issues and providing opportunities for education.
Nunavut has the highest sexually transmitted infection (STI) rate of Chlamydia and gonorrhea in Canada. If left untreated, STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can cause serious problems years later, from chronic pain to infertility. The majority of people infected do not show any symptoms, therefore, regular testing is important for early detection and treatment.
Dr. Maureen Baikie, Chief Medical Officer of Health, encourages Nunavummiut to improve their sexual health by talking to their partners about sexual and reproductive health.
Women can book a ‘Well Woman’ appointment at their local health centre, or at Public Health in Iqaluit. Men and women can be tested for STIs at their local health centre. STI testing in Nunavut is free, easy, and confidential.
The best way to protect yourself from STIs is to practice safer sex, including using a condom at every sexual contact. Condoms are available for free at local health centres or Public Health in Iqaluit.
More sexual health information is available at local health centres and the Department of Health sexual health information site: www.irespectmyself.ca.
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Media Contact:
Ron Wassink
Communications Specialist
Department of Health and Social Services
(867) 975-5710
rwassink@gov.nu.ca