Common STIs in Adolescents: Education, Prevention, and Support

The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) estimates that approximately half of all new sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States affect people between the ages of 15 and 24. The rise in STIs among adolescents is an especially pressing concern due to the potential long-term health implications.

While STIs can and do affect people of all ages, preteens and teenagers tend to engage in more risky behaviors—such as having unprotected sexual intercourse—than adults. At South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, Florida, we believe that general awareness and education about common STIs can help young people make informed choices and better protect their health.

Which STIs are Most Prevalent Among Youths?

Adolescents can contract the same sexually transmitted infections as adults. However, the most prevalent STIs in this age group are:

  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) – In addition to genital warts, HPV has been linked to cervical cancer in females.
  • Chlamydia and gonorrhea – Often asymptomatic, these bacterial infections can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and lead to infertility in women.
  • Herpes simplex virus (HSV) – HSV causes genital herpes, which is characterized by painful sores. While there is no cure, antiviral medications can manage the outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission.
  • Syphilis – Often overlooked, the first sign of this bacterial infection is usually a painless sore on the genitals, rectum, or mouth.
  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) – A chronic immune system disorder, HIV hinders the body’s ability to fight off infection.
  • Trichomoniasis – A parasitic infection, “trich” can make an infected adolescent more vulnerable to other STIs and HIV.

Mitigating the Impact of STIs on Young Lives

Education, open communication, and accessible healthcare services are essential for addressing STIs among adolescents. Some of the most effective ways to prevent and manage STIs are to encourage regular STI testing, promote safe sex practices, and provide information about vaccination options. Empowering adolescents with knowledge about common STIs is a crucial step in safeguarding their health and well-being. South Tampa Immediate Care offers fast and discreet STI testing on a walk-in basis. Our urgent care center is located at 602 S. Howard Ave. in Tampa, FL, where we offer rapid STI testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea using the revolutionary binx health io Diagnostic System®, as well as reliable testing for herpes, hepatitis, syphilis, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), with results back in three to five days.