There seems to be an increasing trend among young women to contract sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) from their partners. Up to a tenth of all women joining the US armed forces are carrying chlamydia, as well as anywhere between one fifth and one third of Australian women aged 18-25. Obviously cervical infections are becoming the latest fashion statement amongst these impressionable young women. While chlamydia may be becoming the new black, though, there is a far more dire epidemic plaguing an increasing larger proportion of older women.

This devastating condition is characterised by several uncomfortable - and occasionally painful - symptoms, generally leading to hospitalisation. These include nausea, mood swings, irritability, insomnia, loss of nutrition, weight gain, bloating and back problems, culminating in the painful expulsion of the parasite responsible. Although the survival rate in Western nations is relatively high, this disease has led to thousands of deaths in poorer nations. The most bizarre outcome of this disease, though, is the adoption of a Stockholm Syndrome-like response to the expelled parasite, with many women choosing to adopt and rear it so that the vicious cycle can continue, despite the burdens and hardships this will place on them. Some sensible sufferers, though, will either donate it to someone else deluded enough to want to live with it or else exterminate it, sparing themselves and others future misery. Those even smarter still will have the parasite terminated before the most serious stages of the disease are reached.

It isn’t all bad news, though, since there are several readily available methods to either prevent contraction or cure the disease, should it progress to an advanced stage. Like most STDs, its spread can be halted by the use of contraceptive devices, such as condoms and diaphragms. Since it is possible for these devices to fail, there is also medication available for women which will prevent infection, although it must be taken daily - and there is a counterpill for men which will actually increase the likelihood of the disease being passed on. Recent breakthroughs in medicine, however, mean that more reliable methods have been developed. There is now a medication which only needs to be taken the day after sex and there are also devices available for implant which can prevent infection for several years. And, of course, there is the permanent solution offered by surgery, although the drastic nature of the procedure for women means that it is best performed on men.

Whatever course of action you might choose to take, whether it be a temporary or more permanent measure, just remember that STDs are no laughing matter. One single decision can result in a lifetime burden and it is the duty of all parties engaging in sexual activity to reduce the possibility of infection as much as possible. Practice safe sex for a healthier future.