Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the rise in South Africa. The precise numbers are arduous to return by, however regional knowledge paint a worrying image.
In Cape City round 4 000 sufferers per thirty days sought take care of STIs in 2025. The Jap Cape reportedly has the very best charges of recent STI circumstances nationally, and in Gauteng, the share of males with STIs rose from 12 % in 2020 to fifteen % in 2023.
Consultants warn that these infections should not being handled with the urgency they require.
Dr Tendesayi Kufa-Chakezha, an epidemiologist on the Centre for HIV and STI on the Nationwide Institute for Communicable Ailments, says STIs stay a public well being concern.
“STIs could cause irritation of the genital tract, growing susceptibility to HIV an infection. Between companions, they will result in long-term issues similar to blocked tubes in each women and men, contributing to infertility,” she explains.
In line with the World Well being Organisation, STIs similar to gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and genital herpes can virtually double the chance of buying HIV.
Low condom use
A report monitoring infections between 2021 and 2024 at chosen clinics discovered that gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis stay extremely prevalent amongst sufferers in search of therapy for STI signs.
“What stood out for me on this report was the extraordinarily low numbers of shoppers reporting condom use. Solely 3 % reported utilizing a condom at their final sexual encounter, and this remained unchanged all through the four-year interval,” says Kufa-Chakezha.
Condom use is without doubt one of the only methods to stop STIs. However for some younger folks, practising secure intercourse might be difficult.
Voices from younger South Africans
Tiyana Mathebula (18) from Giyani, Limpopo, says he has one associate, however he refuses to make use of condoms. “When he desires intercourse, I inform him it’s condoms or nothing,” he says.
A 23-year-old from Duduza within the East Rand, says he has two sexual companions. “I don’t use condoms. I don’t get pleasure from intercourse with a condom. I’m frightened of getting examined as a result of they may discover different ailments,” he admits.
An 18-year-old from Ndindani village close to Giyani says she constantly makes use of safety. “I wish to defend myself from HIV and AIDS. My boyfriend hasn’t been examined for STIs, however I belief him as a result of we at all times use condoms.” Kufa-Chakezha warns that having a number of sexual companions, coming into new sexual relationships, or having intercourse with out safety can all improve the chance of contracting STIs. – Well being-e Information
