27th June 2023

Risk Factors for Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) encompass a range of clinical syndromes which may be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi, transmitted through sexual activity, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Some STIs are often asymptomatic and can therefore spread easily as the index patient may not know that they are infected. Early detection and treatment can avoid complications and reduce the risk of transmission to other sexual partners.

Risk factors for STIs include:

• Younger age – more likely to have multiple partners and engage in sexual risk-taking.
• Condomless sex – condoms don’t eliminate the risk of STIs, however, other than abstinence, they are the most effective way to prevent STIs.
• Multiple sexual partners – due to increased risk of exposure to an STI.
• Anal penetrative sex – the anal and rectal lining is thin, fragile, and susceptible to damage, increasing the risk of entry of infection.
• Alcohol use – due to lowered inhibition and increased sexual risk-taking.
• Recreational drug use – those under the influence of drugs are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviours. Intravenous drug use is also associated with the risk of blood-borne viruses such as hepatitis B, C and HIV.
• Commercial sex work – in some cases, this can increase difficulty in negotiating safe sex; however, risk varies, and many commercial sex workers are very diligent regarding STI prevention.