A reference has painted a worrying picture of the rates of some STD infection on the European continent.
In accordance with Last data from ECDCReleased on February 10, 2025, rates of bacterial infections such as Gonorrhea and Syphilis They have increased once again throughout the European Union and the European Economic Region (EU/EEA).
If you had unprotected sex and want to check for STDs, get the full Sti Better2Know screen, which is trying for the seven most common infections in the United Kingdom.
What is going on?
Nearly 100,000 new cases of gonorrhea were reported, marking a high record, from about 74,000 in 2022. This number is over four times the number of annual cases reported a decade ago.
Cases of gonorrhea were more widespread among women aged 20-24 and men aged 25-34 years. Men who have sexual intercourse with men (MSM) represented more than half of the infections.
Syphilis rates also increased by 13% compared to 2022, with over 40,000 cases mentioned. About half of them were between MSM.
Chlamydia It remains the most commonly mentioned Sti in Europe, with a particularly high prevalence between women and men aged 20-24, in 577 cases per 100,000 people.
Lack of condom use is largely blaming for rising numbers
These numbers have interested health experts, but there may be a simple explanation.
Use condom, especially among young people, has fallen.
While Younger people have less sex overall; research He has shown that sexually active gymnasiums in the US and Canada use condoms 7% less often.
This The reduction has been reflected in Europewith high gender protection rates mentioned between young people. This reduction in condom use is widespread, extending to many countries and regions.
The UK has seen A sharp increase in the number of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis between people aged 15-24.
Such a widespread reduction in condom use is likely to lead to the rise of bacterial STDs in Europe. A 2024 World Health Organization report found that one in five boys and one in seven girls aged 15 said it was sexually active, with 30% using any contraception.
Why do young people use condoms less often?
The reduction in condom use is due to various complex factors.
The perceived risk of getting a Sti, especially infections such as HIVIt has fallen. Most STDs are easily considered therapeutic with medication so that fewer precautions can be taken during sex.
The use of a condom also changes along the socio -economic lines. According to the whereTeenagers from low -income families in Europe were more likely to report that they do not use condoms or contraceptive pills during their last sexual encounter, with 33% for low -income teenagers compared to 25% for their wealthy peers.
The MSM represents most Bacterial cases Sti, but are also most likely to be tested regularly and seek treatment. Heterosexual people may not be aware of the dangers of STDs, increasing the risk of infection.
Sexual health education in Epirus has also been seen as an obstacle. Countries need to increase efforts to provide young people valuable information, secure environments to discuss sexuality and consent, as well as basic life skills to help them make documented sex decisions that can affect their future.
Possible genetic changes leading gonorrhea rates
Gonorrhea, syphilis and chlamydia are bacterial infections that are mainly transmitted through non -protected vaginal, oral and anal sex. While gonorrhea and syphilis rates increase, chlamydia rates are reduced. Scientists cannot explain these contrasting trends, given the similar transmission methods.
Growth rates of gonorrhea can also be connected Strains of these infections that have developed antibiotic resistance. ECDC states that “[the] The emergence of drug -resistant executives threatens the effectiveness of today’s treatments, making it vital the emphasis on the prevention and promotion of responsible use of antibiotics. ECDC actively monitors AMR trends in Neisseria Gonorrhea and works with countries to enhance surveillance and implement strategies to combat resistance. ”
The ECDC report also made other causes, including increased Sti test between certain populations, changes in sexual risk behavior and a greater variety of sexual partners.
Safe sex should be the rule
The ECDC report was clear about the need for more widespread and consistent use of condoms:
‘ECDC emphasizes the importance of preventive measures to address the increasing interest rates. The use of condoms for vaginal, anal and oral sex is vital to prevention. Open and honest communication on sexual health with partners can also help reduce the risk of STI transmission. ”
Sexually active people should continue to use condoms to prevent the spread of STDs in Europe and should limit dangerous sexual behaviors where possible.
The stigma to these infections is one of the main reasons why people do not go to a doctor or seek help. Some experts have also highlighted social behaviors, such as chemical and The use of dating applications that create environments that facilitate casual encounters and increase the risk of Sti transmission.
How does safe sex look like?
Safe sex can only happen between two non -infected people in bound monogamous relationships. In all other cases, partners should use a condom.
If you are going to have sex with a new partner without a condom, you should try in advance for STDs.
If you fail to try in advance, try after non -sex protection, especially if you start living common symptoms inLike the pain during urination, unusual rejection, rashes around the genitals or mouth or flu symptoms such as fever and body aches.
Final thoughts
If you are worried about a recent sexual encounter, you should be tested with Better2 you know.
Click the button below to plan a sexual health test near you. You can also call the number mentioned at the top of this page to talk to a member of our patient services group. They can talk to you about your condition and help you come up with an action plan that will protect your sexual health.
Do not leave your sexual health to luck. Try today with Better2 you know.
