Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacteria. It affects both men and women. Most people with chlamydia do not have symptoms. This means you can pass the infection to a partner without knowing it. Having a regular sexual health check-up can help you find out if you have chlamydia.
HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that damages the body's immune system making it hard to fight off infections. Over time, if untreated, HIV infection can develop into AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) where the immune system is no longer able to fend off infections.
Meaningful inclusion of trans and gender diverse populations in cervical cancer screening: A pilot study
Research status
In progress
Overview of Study
Family Planning NSW is involved in a pilot study led by UNSW Sydney investigating expert perspectives on the structural drivers and barriers to promoting inclusion and diversity in cervical screening services, particularly for trans and gender diverse people who have a cervix.
Cervical Screening Renewal – Clinician Attitudes and Practices following Implementation in NSW
Research status
In progress
Overview of Study
Since the renewal of the National Cervical Screening Program in December 2017 no formal evaluation has been undertaken of attitudes or practices of cervical screening clinicians following implementation.
In order for the renewed program to be a success, it will be important for clinicians to adopt the changes and incorporate the updated guidelines into their practice.
Understanding the health needs of men and women in the midlife period
Research status
Completed
Overview of Study
A secondary data analysis was undertaken of the 45 and Up Study data to investigate 1) the prescribing practices of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) among men, and 2) the prevalence of urinary leakage among women. The 45 and Up Study is an ongoing cohort study of healthy ageing in New South Wales, Australia, conducted by the Sax Institute. Further information about the study is described here: https://www.saxinstitute.org.au/our-work/45-up-study/.
Optimising cervical cancer prevention amongst Aboriginal women in rural and remote New South Wales: A pilot study
Research status
Completed
Overview of Study
Family Planning NSW, with Walgett Aboriginal Medical Service, is implementing a pilot study which aims to address the relatively high cervical cancer incidence and mortality amongst Aboriginal women, through utilising a combined screening approach with same-day treatment (if indicated and requested). A ‘same-day’ approach may benefit women who may otherwise be lost to follow up.
An evaluation is being undertaken by the University of Newcastle to explore the acceptability of this approach for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal women and the relevant health workforce.
Training midwives in the insertion of the contraceptive implant to increase uptake in the immediate postpartum period: a feasibility pilot study
Research status
In progress
Overview of Study
Australia has a relatively high rate of unintended pregnancy. Women may be particularly susceptible to unintended pregnancies in the 12 months after giving birth, partially due to difficulty accessing contraception. It is therefore essential that there be minimal barriers to accessing effective contraception in the postpartum period, including long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC). LARC methods (including the implant and intrauterine devices) are the most effective at preventing unintended pregnancies.
Cost benefit analysis of increasing the uptake of LARC in Australia
Research status
Completed
Overview of Study
Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are highly effective in preventing pregnancy; however, uptake remains relatively low in Australia.
A cost-benefit analysis was undertaken to assess the impact of two scenarios for Australian women (over five years), with economic modelling based on the latest published contraception rates and discontinuation rates.
Scenario 1: Switching from an oral contraceptive pill to a LARC.
Scenario 2: Initiating the use of a LARC for women not currently using any form of contraception.