Young people, aged 15 to 24, are most likely to be diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the UK. According to the UK government, approximately 400 young people are diagnosed with an STI each day. The sexual health charity, Brook, has said their data trends show “a concerning reliance in the UK on the withdrawal method” amongst young people. This comes amidst rising levels of STI diagnoses, and in the last decade, there have been large increases of gonorrhoea and syphilis cases throughout the UK. In 2022, the number of reported gonorrhoea diagnoses was the highest it had ever been since records began in 1918.  

An STI is “any kind of bacterial or viral infection that can be passed on through unprotected sexual contact.” As with most infections, it can usually be treated rather easily, usually through antibiotics. However, if left untreated, it can cause long-term health problems and complications. Not everyone with an STI experiences symptoms, in fact, 75% of women and 50% of men don’t show any signs of chlamydia. Other potentially asymptomatic STIs can include gonorrhoea, genital herpes and HIV. It is also worth noting that any exchange of bodily fluid or skin-to-skin contact can lead to the spreading of STIs, and they can even be transmitted through the use of sex toys. Which is why it is recommended to get tested regularly and to use protection (such as, condoms or dental dams) with new partners.   

STI diagnoses are littered with stigma: that someone is ‘slutty’ or ‘dirty’ if they get a diagnosis. However, this prejudice is unfair and unhelpful, if anything, it acts as a barrier for people seeking proper medical help. In an increasingly sex-positive society, STIs still leave a shameful aftertaste. However, they are a lot more common than people may think, with over 300.000 new diagnoses each year throughout the UK. A diagnosis does not denote anything about someone’s sexual behaviours, nor does it prevent them from having sex ever again.  

Condoms are not cheap and when disposable cash is short, it doesn’t always make top priority on young people’s shopping list. However, there are many free condom services available to students at the UEA. If you are between the ages of 16 and 24, you can sign up for the C-Card Scheme, through which you can gain access to free condoms and lube from local pharmacies, youth services and selected shops. Additionally, you can get free condoms at the SIZ, the Nightline Offices, or advice(su) – no questions asked. 

Moreover, getting tested can seem daunting, but it is the best way to protect yourself, aside from using condoms or dental dams. In fact, Brook recommends getting tested every time you have sex with someone new, particularly if condoms are not being used, or every three months. If you are in an exclusive relationship, then they recommended getting tested once a year.  The UEA’s Medical Centre offers the Nurse B clinic to assist students with sexual health-related matters. They offer confidential, non-judgemental services to all. However, it is worth noting that men with symptoms of an STI should contact iCash instead. Through these services you can access verified DIY testing kits, or book a consultation.  

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