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Sexual Conditions Health Center

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Risk Factors for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Risk factors for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) include:

Having unprotected sex. People who do not use condoms have a higher risk of getting an STI.
Being sexually active at an early age. Sexual activity before age 18 may increase the risk of getting an STI, because teens may have more sex partners or they may be less likely to use condoms to reduce their risk. Girls younger than 18 get STIs 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.

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
Last Revised	December 15, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: December 15, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.