Let’s Talk About STIs – No Shame, Just Facts!
For many Nigerians, especially those living abroad, conversations around sex and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can feel awkward or even taboo. But it’s 2025—being informed is how we protect ourselves and our community.
In this article, we break down the most common STIs in England, the groups most affected, and what you need to know as a member of the Naija UK community.
📈 Most Common STIs in England
Despite a drop in diagnoses during the pandemic, STIs are still a serious concern. The top culprits in the UK are:
- Chlamydia – The most common STI, with over 161,000 cases in 2020 alone. That’s 1 in every 420 people!
- Gonorrhoea – Over 57,000 cases in 2020.
- Genital Warts (first episode) – Nearly 27,500 cases.
- Non-specific genital infections – Over 15,000 cases in 2020.
👩⚕️ Expert tip from Clinical Sexologist Ness Cooper:
“If you’re not in a monogamous relationship, test every 3–6 months. And remember, some infections take time to show up after sex.”
🔍 Men vs Women – Who’s More at Risk?
In 2019:
- Chlamydia hit 125,574 women and 101,163 men.
- Gonorrhoea was more common in men (51,312 vs. 19,057 women).
📉 Diagnoses dropped in 2020, partly due to fewer in-person hookups during lockdowns and reduced testing. But that doesn’t mean the risks are gone.
📊 Age & Risk – What the Numbers Say
The age group 20–24 has the highest STI cases—probably because of uni life and sexual experimentation. For Naija youth in the UK, especially students, get regular checkups, even if you feel fine.
Even older adults aren’t off the hook. People aged 45–64 had 6,505 chlamydia cases. And in the 65+ age group, there were still 362 cases—proof that sexual health matters at every age!
📍 STI Hotspots by Region – London on Top
London has the highest number of STI cases. With a large, diverse population, it’s not surprising—but it’s a wake-up call for those living in or visiting the capital.
Here’s a quick comparison:
- London – 43,964 chlamydia cases
- West Midlands – 13,773 cases
- Yorkshire & the Humber – 14,683 cases
🗣 Ness Cooper notes: “Sex education and access to testing vary by region. Some areas may not have clinics or open conversations about safe sex.”
🏳️🌈 Sexuality & Risk
STI risks vary depending on your sexual practices:
- Heterosexual women had the highest STI rates (over 68,000 in the last 10 years).
- Heterosexual men and MSM (men who have sex with men) followed closely.
Why the difference? According to experts, the vaginal lining is more susceptible to infection than skin-covered areas like the penis. Plus, some women show no symptoms, making infections harder to detect early.
💷 How Much Does STI Treatment Cost?
Good news for those in the UK — NHS treatment is usually free, including for HIV. But in the US, HIV treatment costs over $400,000 across a lifetime. That’s the benefit of being in the UK system – use it!
🧠 Top STI-Related Google Searches
People are curious and often turn to Google for answers like:
- “What is chlamydia?” – 55,000 monthly searches worldwide
- “What does genital herpes look like?”
- “How to cure gonorrhoea without going to the doctor?” (😬 Not the best idea—always seek medical help!)
👂 Final Word for Naija UK Connect Readers
Whether you’re single, married, exploring, or still figuring things out—your sexual health matters. Don’t let culture, shame, or fear stop you from getting tested and staying informed.
💬 Got questions or need support? Drop a DM on Naija UK Connect or find your nearest sexual health clinic.
🔗 Stay safe, stay smart, and stay connected.
#NaijaUKConnect #STIAwareness #HealthIsWealth #BayoNuggets
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