Despite living in an age of sexual enlightenment (we're more open about our sex lives and desires than ever before), we've seen some pretty worrying stats when it comes to sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates. Yep, looking back at our Google history over the last five years, searches about various infections are on the up — some by as much as 150%. Specifically, Hepatitis C (up 150%), Herpes (up 86%), Mgen (56%) and Gonorrhea (53%).
Also reported in LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor's 2024 safe sex report? A third of Brits stated they never use any form of contraception (AKA condoms), while another two-thirds (60%) reported never having had an STI test. A slightly concerning revelation, considering the average Brit has 18 different sexual partners in total throughout their lifetime.
But Dr Claire Dewsnap, former president of the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV, doesn't think the blame lies entirely with those not testing. Without “sufficient investment, sexual health service users will face severe challenges in their ability to access expert, timely care,” she says. “On top of this, the impact of tendering processes has contributed to a lack of stability in the sexual health sector and a depletion of training which further jeopardises the quality and accessibility of services.”
While GLAMOUR does what it can in terms of campaigning — namely, for more women-centric research, more services and better funding for those already in existence — we've also pulled together a guide answering all your questions regarding STI rates. Plus, tips from leading experts on how to have a positive conversation on your sexual health with your partner(s).
SKIP TO: Why might STI rates be on the rise? | Should we worry about STI rates and transmission when having sex? | How to talk about sexual health with your partner(s).
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- Dr Claire Dewsnap, former president of the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV.
- Bianca Dunne, co-founder of STI results sharing app iPlaySafe.
- Samantha Marshall, Global Head of Brand at Smile Makers.
Why might STI rates be on the rise?
According to Bianca Dunne, co-founder of STI results sharing app iPlaySafe (formerly Zults), the spread of STIs isn't just affecting us here in the UK — it's become something of a global epidemic. “Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have reached a record high in the UK, and now globally," she says. “It is becoming untreatable with new strains becoming antibiotic resistant, which is extremely worrying.”
And it's not just affecting young people. “It’s been recorded that people between the ages of 15 and 24 are most commonly diagnosed with sexually transmitted infections,” she says. “But there has also been an increase in people aged in their 50s, 60s and 70s contracting STIs.”
And that's largely down to poor sex education. “Inadequate sexual education taught at schools is a huge factor,” Dunne continues. “There’s therefore a lack of awareness of the protection that they needed when it comes to sex. A lot of miseducation around STIs and STDs has always existed."
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This is one of the reasons many people still feel shame and guilt when discussing their sexual health with their partners and pals. As a result, many never discuss the protection they may need to use or when they last did an STI test, whether at home or at a local clinic.
“Stigma and social barriers can discourage people to get tested and treated, even when services are accessible,” says Samantha Marshall, Global Head of Brand at Smile Makers. Plus, the UK is underfunded when it comes to sexual health services. “Budget cuts and under-resourced sexual health services are impacting this,” adds Marshall.
There is also a rise in young people turning to social media for their sex education — and while this can sometimes help to raise awareness about the issue, it's not always a trustworthy source of information. “With anyone having access to platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, anyone can post their information around sex and transmitted diseases," explains Dunne. “There are so many restrictions on social media platforms that prevent qualified sex educators from reaching those who need the information. Yet so much misinformation is being passed around which is dangerous to Gen Z – who now use TikTok as a search engine for health advice.”
She adds: “More pressure needs to be applied to platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to verify credible sex educators and sexual wellness brands as a source of information.”
Should we worry about STI sharing when having sex?
With a suggestion of STI rates once again on the rise, it's understandable if you're feeling anxious about protecting yourself — or even discussing the (formerly taboo) topic with your sexual partners.
As Dunne explains, there is no need to worry as long as you're being responsible about your own sexual health. “Prioritise your sexual health in the same way you do other aspects of your health," she says. “Regular testing and practicing safe sex are great tools for minimising that anxiety you might feel.”
And when she says safe sex, here's exactly what she means:
While it's a personal choice to use condoms, the pill, hormonal patches or Intrauterine devices (IUDs) such as the coil, they can be effective in preventing pregnancy and/or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It's always best to discuss the best option for you with your GP or a sexual health nurse.
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Be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to your sexual health. Regular STI testing can prevent the transmission of infections. It's recommended you get a new set of results with every new sexual partner.
If your schedule prevents you from visiting a local clinic, there are at-home testing options available too:
This includes washing your hands regularly, before and after sex, and cleaning your genitals thoroughly after sex. We also recommend you avoid sharing personal items such as towels, sex toys or razors if you're yet to be tested or have that conversation with your partner.
Knowing the symptoms of common STIs can also help you identify an infection in the early stages. Examples include pain or burning during urination, unusual discharge, and sores or bumps on the genitals or mouth. If you notice any changes, you should get tested and seek treatment right away.
It's also key to have honest conversations with your sexual partners. “The burden shouldn't be all one-sided,” says Dunne. "An open dialogue and sexual health transparency with whomever you choose to have sex with is vital if you want to completely remove those worries.”
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How to talk about sexual health with your partner(s):
Having honest conversations about your sexual health, including your previous partners and the last time you were tested, is easier said than done. In fact, some might label it a tad intimidating – or mood-killing.
Thankfully, Dunne has shared her top tips for deep-diving into the subject with your significant other:
To save you worrying or walking away from the conversation with a million more questions, it's best to be in the know. Some people assume that sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are only spread through certain sexual behaviours — for example, oral sex. However, each virus is different in terms of how it's shared and the associated symptoms. While the NHS website is always a reliable source, the following sites have detailed information and advice worth reading, too:
- SH:24 — a free online sexual health service, delivered in partnership with the NHS, providing free test kits, information and specialist advice 24 hours a day.
- Brook — a national charity offering clinic sexual health services, education and training for professionals.
- Sexual Health London — a discreet sexual health service for Londoners, providing at-home STI screening and detailed explainers.
- Terrence Higgins Trust — an HIV and sexual health charity, offering services and campaigning on issues such as relationships and sex education in schools to proper funding of HIV services.
“Sharing information that's so personal, such as disclosing your sexual health status – especially on a dating app – can be scary and feel stigmatising," says Dunne. "But to keep yourself and others safe, it’s important to be honest and open.
“This doesn't necessarily have to mean you share your actual status, but you can put something as simple as ‘sexual health advocate’ on your profile.”
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While it’s good to educate your sexual partners, there’s a difference between disclosing and debating. Try to keep it light and straightforward. "Creating a safe space with a potential partner to talk about STIs will help remove the stigma and shame," Dunne continues.
"When discussing initially, refrain from going into too much detail – keep it light, casual and easy. You don’t have to go into details about where you contracted any STIs, but it’s good to be open about your experiences, and to expect the same in return."
If you can't bring yourself to initiate the conversation, consider handing it over to an app. The sexual health sharing app iPlaySafe allows you to download your results and send them to your partner via a link, QR code or Bluetooth, so you can avoid the question-and-answer session altogether. Handy.
“Continuing a sexual relationship with someone who will not discuss their sexual health will ultimately come down to a personal decision,” says Dunne. “Make sure you are informed of the risks involved and always take steps to protect yourself.”
But also, think about how your partner reacts to the conversation. If they shame you for previously testing positive for an STI, consider what this says about them and perhaps your relationship in general. For example, are they less supportive than you might have hoped? Remember: most are easy to treat and manage, so there is no need for shame or judgment.
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