Clinic is there for youth
IT'S SEXUAL Health Awareness Week in NSW and staff at Lismore's sexual health clinic (SHAIDS) are reminding young people to be sexually switched-on.
For anyone who has concerns over symptoms, or simply wants some free advice (or free condoms), the friendly staff of SHAIDS in Shepherds Lane can meet those needs.
SHAIDS also runs a weekly drop-in clinic every Wednesday from 2pm-5pm, with no appointment or medicare card required. It also runs an outreach service in Byron. Sexual health specialist Dr Natalie Edmiston said for common infections, such as chlamydia, a quick diag- nosis means an equally quick cure.
Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in NSW and 60% of cases are among 15 to 25 year olds.
If left untreated it can lead to pelvic infections, chronic pelvic pain and possible infertility.
"Chlamydia testing requires only a urine test and is easily treated with a single dose of antibiotics," Dr Edmiston said.
She said any stigma associated with getting a sexual health check-up with young people usually dissolved with a visit to the clinic.
"Once a young person comes to the youth clinic they normally feel very comfortable coming to the service and often bring their friends back," she said.
