DIY sex disease tests by post in the north-east

Young people in the north-east can test themselves for sexually-transmitted infections after a do-it-yourself test kit was launched yesterday.

NHS Grampian hope to encourage people aged 25 and under, particularly men, to check themselves for infections such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia.

Failure to treat infections can result in long-term health problems including testicular swelling and pain in men.

In women it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and ectopic pregnancies.

The free postal kits, including clear instructions, are available at sites throughout Grampian and Moray. A community sexual health nurse will contact anyone who has a positive result.

Dr Gillian Flett, consultant and clinical lead for NHS Grampian’s Sexual Health Network, said: “Concern persists about the number of young people contracting sexually-transmitted infections.

“We are keen to ensure all sections of the com- munity – men and women – are aware of the risks and health consequences and have easy access to testing.”

Dr Steve Baguley, consultant in genitourinary medi-cine, said: “Once chlamydia and gonorrhoea have been diagnosed, they are easy to treat.

“But it is better to prevent an infection than to need to get one treated.

“Most people know how to avoid catching an infection – always use a condom un-less you’ve both had a check-up.”

Anyone looking for free and confidential advice can call the Grampian sexual health service on 0845 337 9900 or the national sexual health advice line on 0800 567123.