Parents

Although parenting can be fun and incredibly rewarding, it isn’t always easy. Talking about sexual health and the risks associated with it can be difficult, or at the very least uncomfortable. That’s why we here to arm you with facts and prevention techniques so there’s never a question you can’t answer. Even if you don’t think your child is sexually active, it is important to give them access to as much information regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other sexual health topics as you can. As uncomfortable as this may be for both of you, your child will thank you.

Teens and young adults are at higher risk

Did you know 15-24 year olds account for half of all new STI infections? Teens and young adults have unique circumstances that put them at a higher risk. Take a moment to review theopens in a new tab CDC fact sheet: information for teens and young adults to learn more about the unique risks faced by this population.

Utah STI statistics

• Chlamydia is still the leading STI in Utah and throughout the U.S.
• In 2022, 11,110 cases of chlamydia were reported in Utah and 56% of those cases were among people between the ages of 15 and 24.
• Gonorrhea is also increasing rapidly in Utah, although it is much less common than chlamydia infections.
• From 2017-2022, gonorrhea rates in females more than doubled while the rates tripled in males.
• Young women are more likely to be diagnosed with chlamydia than young men. This is because chlamydia infections often have no symptoms and are diagnosed at routine screenings recommended for young women.¹