NEWS RELEASE
16 July 2007

Auckland’s first Sexual Health WOF available from this week

Auckland Sexual Health Service clinics are offering free sexual health warrant of fitness tests (WOFs) to combat rising sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates in New Zealand.

The move has been prompted by an increase in the number of confirmed chlamydia cases in New Zealand.

From 2002 to 2006 the number of confirmed chlamydia cases in New Zealand increased by 27.7 per cent, while the number of cases of gonorrhoea cases diagnosed increased by 52.1 per cent. Viral infections such as genital herpes and genital warts continue to be a very common problem.

“Anyone can come in for a free confidential check-up” says Nicky Perkins, sexual health doctor. “We don’t judge, we’re just helping people deal with STI’s.”

If left untreated chlamydia and gonorrhoea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease in women which can cause ectopic pregnancies, infertility and ongoing pain.

These infections in men can lead to inflammation and pain in the testicles and even infertility.

Auckland Sexual Health doctor, Nicky Perkins, is urging anyone who is sexually active to go along for a free sexual health WOF.

“Most people only think of going to a sexual health clinic when they notice something is wrong. But many STIs have no symptoms, so people may have them without realising it,” she says.

“Going for a sexual health check-up isn’t a big deal, and if you have an infection most of these can be easily treated. It’s just like your car – you take it in for a service by an experienced professional so they can detect if anything is wrong and fix it before it gets worse.”

Young people are at highest risk of STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, genital herpes and genital warts.

Perkins said sexual health WOF posters will be seen in local community organisations, bars and pubs from this week

“Our service is free, confidential and sensitive to different peoples’ needs,” says Perkins.

The clinics operate on an appointment system, but those with urgent problems can be seen on the same day and a male or female doctor or nurse can be requested.

ENDS

Auckland Sexual Health Service has four clinics:
Central Clinic: 09 630 9770
Greenlane Clinical Centre, Greenlane West
West Clinic: 09 836 0838
362 Great North Road, Henderson
North Clinic: 09 443 2544
Cnr Glenfield Road and Peach Road, Glenfield
South Clinic: 09 255 5172
Waddon Place, Mangere

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