A new study held by the Monash Institute of Medical Research has discovered that a protein in the female reproductive system can help to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases such as the herpes simplex virus and chlamydia. STIs affect around 450 million people every year, with chlamydia being one of the most commonly contracted diseases. This study provides some interesting results that could greatly impact the way in which STIs are prevented and treated.
The protein is called Interferon epsilon, or IFNe, and has proved to be a vital preventative in women. This feature of the female reproductive tract could provide great potential in helping to determine whether certain women are more susceptible to sexual diseases than others. There may also be further studies into the treatment of these diseases with this protein at the helm.
The body’s production of this protein is particularly interesting – most proteins are created only once we’ve been infected or exposed to a virus or bacteria. The IFNe protein, however, develops naturally and is regulated by the hormones in the body. This means that the levels of it vary depending on the menstrual cycle. Therefore, you will be more at risk of catching STIs when your IFNe levels are at their lowest. Researchers are keen to delve into this subject even further with the hope that it could offer positive findings for other sexually transmitted diseases, such as HPV and HIV.
Good sexual health practices are vital in order to reduce your risk of developing sexually transmitted infections – be sure to discuss your contraceptive options with your GP if you’re not currently using any, and remember that condoms are the only effective preventative against STDs. Getting regular checks is also important to ensure that you haven’t caught any infections – remember to check for symptoms, but don’t forget that some diseases don’t always show signs of infection, so regular tests are the only way to stay healthy.
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