Screening services for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) need to be expanded and made more affordable, the Irish Family Planning Association (IFPA) has said.

It has just launched its 2012 Annual Report, which revealed that the number of STI screenings carried out at IFPA clinics last year jumped by 16% compared to 2011.

"The marked increase in numbers attending for STI screening in IFPA clinics last year shows that more people are taking responsibility for their sexual health. In order for this positive trend to continue and to support people in looking after their sexual health, adequate and affordable STI screening services must be available nationally," commented IFPA medical director, Dr Caitriona Henchion.

The report noted that one of the main barriers in accessing STI screening services is the fact that people on low incomes have to pay for a full screening at primary level. It called for an expansion of affordable screening at this level.

It emphasised that affordability is particularly an issue for young people on low incomes - who are currently the group with the highest incidence of STI infection in this country.

The report also noted that it can be difficult for people in rural areas to access STI screening services.

"Despite the growing importance of sexual health care for people and the increase of STI rates in Ireland, screening services nationally remain inadequate," Dr Henchion said.

She insisted that ‘affordable and comprehensive' screening should be available to everyone at a primary care level.

"This would ensure that people across Ireland have access to the sexual health services they need."

Meanwhile, the report also revealed that the number of people attending for face-to-face crisis pregnancy counseling last year increased by 6% compared to the previous year. And post-abortion counseling sessions jumped by a massive 82% in the same period.