Teen STD Risk Factors: Behaviors, Biology & Prevention Strategies

Adolescents (15–24) acquire half of new STIs despite being 25% of sexually active population.

Key Risk Factors

• Behavioral: Condom non-use, multiple/sequential partners, concurrent partnerships, substance use before sex.
• Biological: Cervical ectopy (immature squamocolumnar junction) ↑ susceptibility to chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV. Immature immune response.
• Structural: Lack of access to confidential care, cost, transportation, stigma.
• Developmental: Impulsivity, invincibility belief, poor risk assessment.

Evidence-Based Prevention

1. Vaccination: HPV (9-valent) age 9–26; Hep B series.
2. Condoms: Correct/consistent use for vaginal/anal/oral. Internal condoms option.
3. Screening: Annual chlamydia/gonorrhea (NAAT) for all sexually active <25; HIV per CDC.
4. Expedited Partner Therapy (EPT): Legal in most states for chlamydia/gonorrhea.
5. PrEP: For high-risk youth (MSM, trans, injection drug use).

Comprehensive sex education + accessible clinical services = greatest impact.