The Rise of STIs: Why the Numbers Are Growing & What You Need to Know

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the rise, and this troubling trend has been steadily gaining attention in recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of reported cases of STIs in the United States has reached an all-time high, with millions of new infections occurring each year. While awareness campaigns, prevention methods, and treatments have come a long way, the numbers continue to climb. Why is this happening, and what can you do to protect yourself and your partner?

The Growing Epidemic: The Stats

In 2021, the CDC reported that there were more than 2.5 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis in the U.S. alone—an increase from previous years. In particular, chlamydia and gonorrhea cases have spiked, and syphilis, which had been largely under control for decades, is now making a disturbing comeback. Even more alarming is the rise in cases of antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea, making the infection harder to treat.

Why is this happening, and what does it mean for public health? There are several factors at play.

Why Are STIs on the Rise?

1. Changes in Sexual Behavior

   One of the most significant contributors to the rising STI rates is changes in sexual behavior. In recent years, there has been a shift toward more casual sex, often facilitated by dating apps and platforms that encourage spontaneous connections. While these apps can help people find partners, they also make it easier to engage in unprotected sex, sometimes with individuals whose STI status is unknown.

2. Decreased Condom Use

   As access to birth control methods and HIV prevention (like PrEP) has increased, some individuals may feel that they are protected from STIs, leading to less frequent condom use. However, condoms are still one of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of most STIs, including HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.

3. Lack of Testing and Awareness

   Many people don’t get tested for STIs regularly, especially if they don’t exhibit symptoms. In fact, many STIs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be asymptomatic, meaning you can have them without knowing it and unknowingly pass them on to others. Regular testing is crucial for preventing the spread of these infections.

4. Stigma and Shame

   There's still a lot of stigma surrounding STIs, which can make people hesitant to talk openly about their sexual health or seek treatment. This stigma can also discourage individuals from getting tested, even when they are at higher risk. Reducing this stigma is crucial for increasing STI awareness and promoting better sexual health practices.

5. Antibiotic Resistance

   Certain STIs, like gonorrhea, have become resistant to the antibiotics traditionally used to treat them. This creates a particularly dangerous situation, as infections that were once easily treatable may now require more intensive and prolonged treatment. The rise of antibiotic-resistant strains is one of the most concerning trends in STI prevention and control.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself

1. Avoid Casual Sex

   Engaging in casual sex—especially with new or unfamiliar partners—can significantly increase your risk of contracting an STI. Avoiding casual sex can lower your risk of STI transmission, as it reduces the number of potential partners you may be exposed to.

2. Get Tested Regularly

   Whether you have symptoms or not, regular testing is the best way to ensure you're not unknowingly carrying or spreading an STI. If you’re sexually active—especially if you have multiple partners or don’t consistently use condoms—getting tested once a year is recommended. Some people may need more frequent testing, depending on their sexual behavior.

3. Communicate With Your Partner

   Honest communication about sexual health with your partner is essential. Talk about STI testing, sexual boundaries, and safe sex practices before engaging in sexual activity. This conversation can be uncomfortable, but it’s essential for both your health and your partner's health.

4. Use Protection

   Condoms are still one of the most effective ways to prevent many STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV. While other forms of contraception can prevent pregnancy, only condoms offer protection against STIs. Make sure to use them correctly and consistently, especially when you have sex with a partner whose STI status you aren’t certain of.

5. Know the Signs and Symptoms

   If you experience unusual symptoms like pain during urination, sores or bumps in the genital area, unusual discharge, or any other signs of an infection, seek medical attention right away. Early detection and treatment can prevent complications and help stop the spread of STIs.

6. Practice Mutual Responsibility

   Both partners share the responsibility of maintaining sexual health. If one partner has an STI, both individuals need to be open about treatment options and take steps to avoid transmission. This can include using protection, getting treated, and refraining from sexual activity until it's safe to resume.

The Bottom Line

The rise in STIs is a public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. While it’s clear that we need to address changes in behavior, stigma, and awareness to reduce the spread of STIs, individual action is just as important. By taking responsibility for our own sexual health, talking openly with our partners, and using preventive measures like condoms and regular testing, we can slow the increase in STI cases and protect ourselves and others.

Sexual health is a critical part of overall health. Don’t shy away from the conversation—take control of your sexual health, protect yourself, and encourage others to do the same. The more informed and proactive we are, the better we can fight this growing epidemic.