Sexually Transmitted Infections in Aotearoa New Zealand

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that you can get from unprotected sex, or sexual activity. STIs are a significant public health concern in New Zealand and more than half of us will contract an STI at some point in our lives. 

STIs disproportionately affect young people, men who have sex with men, and Māori and Pacific populations and these inequities in health care are not acceptable. In order to achieve equitable health outcomes in Aotearoa New Zealand, we must understand what is contributing to these inequities, and operate differently so that inequities are eliminated. The good news? Most STIs are curable, and all are treatable.

Here we explore some key points about STIs in Aotearoa:

1. Prevalence and Impact:

• STIs can have serious long-term consequences, including infertility.
• Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV.
• STIs are passed from one person to another during sexual contact.
• Many people with an STI have no signs or symptoms so are unaware they are infectious.
• STIs can infect many areas of the body—the genital and anal area, mouth and throat.
• STIs are caused by microscopic (invisible) organisms such as bacteria, viruses or parasites.

• Young people up to the age of 25 have the highest rates of STIs in Aotearoa New Zealand.
• Rates of gonorrhoea (particularly in young people aged between 15 and 25) and syphilis (particularly with men who have sex with men) are increasing.
• If you have had unprotected sex, get tested. Gonorrhoea is increasingly hard to treat as it is resistant to some antibiotics.

• To achieve equitable health outcomes, health practitioners and organizations must adopt a “cultural safety” approach.
• This involves examining cultural views, reducing bias, and ensuring equity in clinical interactions and service delivery.
• Gender-inclusive language is used, recognizing transgender and non-binary individuals³.

4. Guidelines and Resources:

• The NZ STI Guidelines provide comprehensive information for health professionals on STI management, diagnosis, and treatment³.
• The Sexually Transmitted Infections Education Foundation offers resources and guidance for clinicians and the public⁴.

Remember that prevention, regular testing, and safe sexual practices are essential in reducing the spread of STIs. Learning about STIs can feel overwhelming but organisations exist to give you the facts you need to take care of your sexual health.

Talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested if:

• You have had unprotected sex (i.e. without a condom or dental dam, or if the condom wasn't used properly);
• You have a new sexual partner;
• You have more than one sexual partner;
• You're worried you've been exposed to an STI.

Not all STIs are prevented by the use of condoms. So, even if you used protection, it is a good idea to get tested if you notice any symptoms on yourself or your partner. If you have an STI and don't get treatment, you could pass it onto others, and it could cause more serious health problems later on. STI testing is often free, particularly for rangatahi. You can test discreetly at home for some of the most common STIs found in New Zealand using our self-test kits available here.

If you're confused, worried or have questions about STI testing, you can speak to your GP or give your nearest clinic a ring and someone will be able to help you. Find your nearest clinic here.