Infections continue to forge ahead, compromising the nation’s health

More than 2.5 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were reported in 2021

Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance, 2021 provides the most current and complete data for nationally notifiable sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In 2021, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis continued to increase in the United States. Disruptions in STI-related prevention and care services due to the COVID-19 pandemic likely continued in 2021, but the impact was most acute in 2020. While the pandemic exposed shortcomings within public health, the nation’s response offers lessons learned that could help reverse rising STI trends.

How You Can Prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Protect Yourself:

Abstinence

The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex (i.e., anal, vaginal or oral).

Vaccination

Vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended ways to prevent hepatitis B and HPV. HPV vaccination is recommended for preteens ages 11 or 12 (or can start at age 9) and everyone through age 26, if not vaccinated already. Vaccination is not recommended for everyone older than age 26 years. However, some adults age 27 through 45 years who are not already vaccinated may decide to get the HPV vaccine after speaking with their doctor about their risk for new HPV infections and the possible benefits of vaccination. HPV vaccination in this age range provides less benefit as more people have already been exposed to HPV. You should also get vaccinated for hepatitis B if you were not vaccinated when you were younger.

Reduce Number of Sex Partners

Reducing your number of sex partners can decrease your risk for STDs. It is still important that you and your partner get tested, and that you share your test results with one another.

Mutual Monogamy

Mutual monogamy means that you agree to be sexually active with only one person, who has agreed to be sexually active only with you. Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner is one of the most reliable ways to avoid STDs. But you must both be certain you are not infected with STDs. It is important to have an open and honest conversation with your partner.

Use Condoms

Correct and consistent use of the male latex condom is highly effective in reducing STD transmission. Use a condom every time you have anal, vaginal, or oral sex.

If you have latex allergies, synthetic non-latex condoms can be used. But it is important to note that these condoms have higher breakage rates than latex condoms. Natural membrane condoms are not recommended for STD prevention.

 

Which STD Tests Should I Get?

If you are sexually active, getting tested for STDs is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. Make sure you have an open and honest conversation about your sexual history and STD testing with your doctor and ask whether you should be tested for STDs. If you are not comfortable talking with your regular health care provider about STDs, there are many clinics that provide confidential and free or low-cost testing. Below is a brief overview of STD testing recommendations.

• All adults and adolescents from ages 13 to 64 should be tested at least once for HIV.
• All sexually active women younger than 25 years should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year. Women 25 years and older with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners or a sex partner who has an STD should also be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year.
• Everyone who is pregnant should be tested for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C starting early in pregnancy. Those at risk for infection should also be tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea starting early in pregnancy. Repeat testing may be needed in some cases.
• All sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men should be tested:
  • At least once a year for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Those who have multiple or anonymous partners should be tested more frequently (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).
  • At least once a year for HIV and may benefit from more frequent HIV testing (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).
  • At least once a year for hepatitis C, if living with HIV.
• Anyone who engages in sexual behaviors that could place them at risk for infection or shares injection drug equipment should get tested for HIV at least once a year.
• People who have had oral or anal sex should talk with their healthcare provider about throat and rectal testing options.

 

Treatment and Screening

2021 STI Treatment Guidelines

The guidelines provide CDC’s most current evidence-based recommendations for preventing, diagnosing and treating people who have, or are at risk for, STIs. Includes regimens, evidence tables, wall chart, and pocket guide.

Recommendations for Providing Quality STD Clinical Services (STD QCS)

Recommendations and tools intended to guide STD clinical practice standards in healthcare settings and optimize patient care. This is a companion piece to the 2021 STI Treatment Guidelines.

Availability of STI Testing & Treatment Products

Updates on the availability of STI testing and treatment products.

Expedited Partner Therapy

Providing prescriptions or medications to the patient to take to his/her partner without the health care provider first examining the partner.

Laboratory Information

Guidance, specimen submission, and more.

Additional Resources

General STD treatment updates and resources, including Dear Colleague Letters, podcasts, and scientific articles.