Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Director of Public Health.

This report has been prepared at the request of the Health and Wellbeing Board to provide an update on performance, provision and key development areas in relation to sexual health in the borough.

The Board is invited to consider and note the report.

Officer contact: Dr Donna Sager, 0161-474-3928, donna.sager@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Director of Public Health submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) providing an update on performance, provision and key development areas for sexual health, preventative and treatment services. The report had been prepared at the request of the Board.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         There was a discussion about the comparatively high levels of chlamydia detections in Stockport compared with other Greater Manchester areas and that this was in part reflective of higher rates testing. It was commented that there was a challenge in ensuring earlier detection/ testing and treatment. A key to improving this situation was to understanding the geographical distribution of those being tested and where prevalence to ensure that campaigns aimed at increasing awareness did not simply target those who were likely to be tested in any case and thereby simply increase the number of negative results.

·         It was commented that the percentage of repeat abortions amongst under 25s was saddening (although below the national average) and clarification was sought on what support was offered to women. In response it was stated that contraception advice was always offered to women in this situation but for those under 25 there was often a reluctance to have long acting reversible contraception (although Stockport had higher uptake in comparison to national rates).

·         Comment was made about the low rate of teenage conception in Trafford and whether anything could be adopted elsewhere. In response it was commented that rates had traditionally been low in Trafford and may reflect aspirations and ambitions amongst young people, parents and schools.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.