Understanding STI Transmission: Statistics and Strategies
I’ve previously shared these statistics, but I think it’s important to share them alongside one another, especially as folks are referencing Summer 2021 as the “Summer of STIs.” 🙄
These statistics and their language are from a 2019 @kaiserfamilyfoundationpoll of US Americans entitled, “Public Knowledge and Attitudes About Sexually Transmitted Infections: KFF Polling and Policy Insights.” It should be noted that the 54% also includes those who experienced an STI, as well as those they know.
There are several actions one can take to reduce the chance of transmitting an STI. Barriers (condoms, dental dams), medication (as applicable), education, and communication—likely the most under-used and forgotten tool. As of this day, there is no 100% guaranteed way to prevent transmission of STIs between partners. Which is why I say it is human to experience one of you are sexually active with one or more partners.
With the lack of knowledge about the realities of STIs, lack of screening history, and lack of knowledge around what we are being screened and/or tested for, it makes sense that we are seeing increasing rates of STIs. Add in shame of, not only sharing an STI Status, but a strange embarrassment/stigma in asking for partners’ statuses, we are culturally relying on barrier methods and silence as means to reduce transmission rather than education and empowerment.
It’s not sustainable.