Sexual practices and reproductive variables in young people under 25 who report a sexually transmitted infection: a look from the X National Youth Survey in Chile

Abstract

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) pose a challenge to the health of young people and adolescents. Aim: To analyze the characteristics of sexual practices and reproductive variables in people under the age of 25 who report an STI diagnosis, in the 10th National Youth Survey in Chile. Methods: Cross-sectional and analytical. The sample consisted of 6,288 people. The association between sociodemographic, reproductive, and sexual health variables and the variable “STIs” (Rao-Scott) was measured. The association between these variables was evaluated by adjusting simple and multiple logistic regression models. Results: Factors that increase the likelihood of STIs: unplanned pregnancy (OR 2.28), induced abortion (OR 5.89), multiple sexual partners (OR 2.10), intimate partner violence (OR 2.78), oral sex (OR 3.57), anal sex (OR 2.42), less stable first partner (OR 2.97), early sexual intercourse (OR 2.54), prior HIV testing (OR 4.60), female gender (OR 4.42), and non-cisgender (OR 7.59). Conclusions: Comprehensive strategies for STI prevention must be implemented, encompassing gender-sensitive sex education, access to healthcare, and initiatives that consider the social determinants of health.