In a recent review article published in the Journal of Sex Research , researchers explored the existing literature on sexually transmitted infection (STI) disclosure, highlighting the emotional complexities and strategies involved in the disclosure process. They concluded that relationship factors significantly influence disclosure decisions. Still, there is a need for more research on the experiences of those receiving STI disclosures to inform future education and intervention efforts better.
Study: Disclosure of Sexually Transmitted Infections to Sexual Partners: A Systematic Critical Literature Review . Image Credit: Tutatamafilm/Shutterstock.com In 2018, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimated that 67.
6 million people in the U.S. had an STI, with 26.
2 million new cases reported that year. Emerging adults (ages 18-29) are most at risk and concerned about contracting STIs. Since STI rates have remained high and continue to rise, especially amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a review of STI disclosure literature is timely and necessary.
The CDC recommends various STI prevention methods, including disclosure to sexual partners. However, existing research on STI disclosure often lacks guiding frameworks and robust methodology and frequently excludes the perspectives of disclosure recipients. Fear of stigma, relationship quality, and symptoms are all factors that are known to influence the decision to disclose one’s STI status.
This review aimed t.
