Risk factors for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

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Having unprotected sex. Women who do not use condoms have a higher risk of getting an STD.
Being sexually active at an early age. Sexual activity before age 18 may increase the risk of getting an STD, because teen girls may have more sex partners or they may be less likely to use condoms to reduce their risk. Girls younger than 18 get STDs 2 to 3 times more often than those older than 18. The cells of the transformation zone of the cervix are more susceptible to infection in teen girls.
Having more than one sex partner.
Having a high-risk sex partner (one who has other sex partners).
Participating in prostitution.
Using birth control pills without using condoms.

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Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
Last Updated	February 5, 2007

Last updated:	February 05, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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