Gendered Social Trends: Influencing Factors of Sexual Health Outcomes in Women

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affect an estimated 347 million people worldwide. These diseases can potentially incur significant long-term negative health outcomes, including lifetime treatment regimens, cancer, or infertility. Outcome severity, clinical manifestations, and acquisition rates show a sexually dimorphic variability, with women experiencing a higher disease burden than men. While the exact mechanism for this disparity is unknown, it is likely due to a combination of biological and social influences disproportionately affecting the sexes. This study investigates some of these gendered variables, particularly those involving birth control and sexual healthcare, and their relationship with STI acquisition. Data analysis using the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey, and a cross-sectional sexual health survey disseminated to college women concluded that women in the United States follow the classic gendered trend with higher rates of STIs. Our cross-sectional sexual health survey included information from 522 sexually active women. We found significant associations regarding a positive self-reported STI history with sexual partner number and inconsistent screening frequency. We also found associations between women who do use some form of hormonal contraceptive with condom use, STI screening frequency, and age. Free-response questions also gave us qualitative insight regarding comfort with sexual health physicians, feelings regarding positive STI diagnosis, and physician’s approach toward their positive STI history. This study addressed several variables associated with women's sexual health care and outcomes and was able to identify several risk factors that may influence the gendered disparity we see in STI prevalence.