Areas we work in / Ngā Wāhi Mahi

SEXUAL HEALTH

Chlamydia Prevention Poster Community and Public Health promotes positive sexual and reproductive health and responsible sexual behaviour to minimise the incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS. The two main areas of concern are New Zealand's increasing rates of STIs, and the high level of unintended pregnancies. There has been a consistent rise in chlamydia rates in the past few years, along with the re-emergence of gonorrhoea and syphilis. STI rates are disproportionately high in young people between the ages of 15 and 24 years and in Māori and Pacific youth.

HIV rates are also of concern, as there is a close relationship between the spread of HIV and other STIs. The risks are similar, and the presence of other STIs may facilitate the spread of HIV. Infection spread can be reduced by prevention measures, such as using condoms every time, delaying the first sex experience, and limiting the number of partners.

Staff at Community and Public Health provide the following services:

Provision of sexual and reproductive health information on to the public
Distribution of condoms and lubricants
Educational sessions for high needs groups in the community (limited sessions available)
Dr G online service for young people answering questions on sexuality and relationships
Seminars to update and inform those working in the sexual health/youth areas
Pink Health Otautahi project to support the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender community
Participation in local events related to HIV/AIDS including World AIDS Day
Contact tracing for Sexual Transmitted Infections
Handling requests for information and complaints with regard to the Prostitution Reform Act.
Producing a sexual health newsletter twice annually

Documents

	Gender Reassignment Health Services for Trans People within New Zealand (Ministry of Health)
	Treat Yourself Right: Information for Women living with HIV or AIDS 2009 (Positive Women)
	Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy: Phase One 2001 (Ministry of Health)
	Sexual and Reproductive Health: A resource book for NZ health care organisations 2003 (Ministry of Health)
	HIV/AIDS Action Plan: Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy 2003 (Ministry of Health)
	AIDS - New Zealand Biannual Update (University of Otago Medical School)
	Sexually Transmitted Infections in New Zealand: Annual Surveillance Reports (ESR)

Downloads

Order copies from the Community Health Information Centre.

	Being Safer Sexually
	Chlamydia Information Guide
	What are Genital Warts?
	What is Genital Herpes?
	What is Gonorrhoea?
	What are STI Tests?
	Preventing HIV Infection