Sash Window Help

Hi all,
im a total novice when it comes to DIY..thus why im searching for a forum for assistance!
i've moved into an old property with Sash Windows..
my sash window in the bathroom looks to have been stripped of paint exposing wood only.
it appears to have no type of varnish on it so when i shower (or condensation builds on the window) the sash window becomes wet which is worrying as i'm pretty sure this would be causing damage over time.

Can you suggest what i should do?should i repaint the window with some sort of special paint to protect the wood or use a varnish of some sort?

thanks in advance,
dave

you could try somthing like sikkens follow link for example.

http://www.decorate4less.co.uk/product_list.cfm?prodgroupid=29&cat=6