The Stigma of Sexually Transmitted Infections

Nurs Clin North Am. 2020 Sep;55(3):295-305. doi: 10.1016/j.cnur.2020.05.002. Epub 2020 Jul 15.

Abstract

Evidence-based guidelines have improved diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STI). Social stigma remains a barrier to STI testing and is associated with underutilization of prevention services. Alternatives for STI testing (eg, in-home testing) are convenient. However, some individuals decline follow-up treatment in fear of unintentional disclosure of their diagnosis. This article reviews STI treatment guidelines and examines the impact of stigma and ethical issues on testing, adherence, partner notification, and transmission rates. An understanding of STI-associated ethical issues and controversies is an important step toward eliminating stigma and reducing STI prevalence and morbidity.

Keywords: Delayed care; Partner treatment; Provider-patient relationship; Sexually transmitted infections; Stigma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. / standards
  • Guidelines as Topic / standards*
  • HIV Infections / therapy
  • HIV Infections / transmission
  • Humans
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care*
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases* / classification
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases* / therapy
  • Social Stigma*
  • United States