Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Week begins on February 8th and ends on February 14th. Its main highlight is the importance of regular and open discussions about overall health and wellness and sexual and reproductive health as an important part of safe practices.
“This week gives us an opportunity to raise awareness about the risks of exposure to sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections, how people can prevent themselves from contracting these infections, and what we can collectively do to increase testing across the state,” said Dr. Nnamdi Ndubuka, Medical Health Officer, Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority (NITHA). “This is a very important time to talk about these sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections.
Currently, the number of people infected with HIV, chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea is extremely high, making it one of the highest in Canada compared to other provinces. These infections span all ages and backgrounds, but fortunately, most are preventable and treatable, and early diagnosis can save lives. ”
Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Week serves as an opportunity to reduce stigma, promote informed decision-making, and reinforce the message that safe sexual and reproductive health practices are an essential component of overall health.
“Stigma against STBBI typically prevents people from getting tested and treated, so we’re using this week as an opportunity to pivot that conversation and normalize testing like any other disease that requires testing,” Ndubuka said.
Regular and open conversations with a trusted health care provider can help individuals feel supported and informed, make decisions with confidence, prevent illness, identify concerns early, and support both physical and mental health.
“Having open conversations about your sexual and reproductive health with your trusted health care provider is an important step to maintaining your overall health,” said Lori Carr, Minister of Mental Health, Addictions, Aging, Rural and Telehealth. “When people feel comfortable asking questions, it reduces stigma, supports prevention, early diagnosis and treatment, and helps build stronger, healthier communities.”
Healthcare providers offer guidance on a wide range of sexual and reproductive health topics, including contraception, family planning, fertility, pregnancy, menopause, and sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBI). Regular check-ins and daily discussions can help ensure people get the care they need.
There are functional support groups, including a NITHA HIV working group with representatives from PAGC, PBCN, Meadow Lake Tribal Council, and Lac La Ronge Indian Band, that people can reach out to to fully serve these groups.
Saskatchewan residents are encouraged to ask questions and voice concerns during their medical appointments, seek accurate, evidence-based information from qualified health-care providers, access recommended testing and preventive services, and support open and respectful conversations about sexual and reproductive health within their communities.
NITHA has consistently lined up activities that incorporate these issues, including quizzes through various social media handles, meetings with health workers, interactions with chief ministers and city councilors, interaction with the media, and sharing of posters and flyers.
Despite challenges such as stigma, access to clean needles and especially medical services, medical professionals believe testing and early detection are the key to treatment.
He advised that individuals should be aware of their status, use protective equipment when engaging in sexual activity, and also get tested. “Protecting our sexual health means protecting our communities. Most STBBIs are curable and treatable if diagnosed early. We strongly encourage screening and testing.”
For more information about sexual and reproductive health services in Saskatchewan, residents are encouraged to speak to their health care provider or visit a sexually transmitted infection service location in their region.