Summary
- • In 2019, there were 468,342 diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in England
- • Chlamydia accounted for 49% of all new STI diagnoses in 2019
- • Gonorrhea diagnoses increased by 26% from 2018 to 2019
- • In 2019, there were 70,936 diagnoses of gonorrhea in England
- • Syphilis diagnoses increased by 10% from 2018 to 2019
- • There were 7,982 diagnoses of syphilis in England in 2019
- • In 2019, there were 229,411 diagnoses of chlamydia in England
- • 15-24 year olds accounted for 61% of chlamydia diagnoses in 2019
- • In 2019, there were 1,339 new HIV diagnoses in the UK
- • There were an estimated 105,200 people living with HIV in the UK in 2019
- • 94% of people diagnosed with HIV in the UK are on treatment
- • 97% of people on HIV treatment in the UK have an undetectable viral load
- • In 2019, 42% of HIV diagnoses in the UK were among gay and bisexual men
- • In 2019, 98% of pregnant women in the UK were tested for HIV
- • The UK teenage pregnancy rate in 2018 was 16.8 per 1,000 women aged 15-19
Sex, stats, and surprises – delve into the fascinating world of UK sexual health with a blog post more revealing than a late-night message to an ex. From the wild world of STI diagnoses that could rival any soap opera plotline to the intricate dance of contraception choices hotter than a summer fling, these numbers will make your head spin faster than a poorly-fitted condom. So, grab your hand sanitizer and get ready to be shocked, intrigued, and maybe even a little bit educated – after all, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to whats really going down beneath the sheets.
Abortion
- In 2019, there were 209,519 abortions for women resident in England and Wales
- The abortion rate in 2019 was 18.0 per 1,000 women aged 15-44
- 98% of abortions in England and Wales in 2019 were funded by the NHS
- In 2019, 82% of abortions were carried out at under 10 weeks gestation
- Medical abortions accounted for 73% of total abortions in 2019
- In 2019, 40% of women undergoing abortions had one or more previous abortions
Interpretation
In 2019, it seems the UK reached a record-breaking milestone in the realm of sexual health statistics, showcasing a cocktail of alarming and intriguing data points. With over 200,000 abortions recorded, it appears that the NHS is single-handedly keeping the abortion industry afloat, offering a form of "discounted services" at a rate of 18 abortions per 1,000 women. Surprisingly, the majority of procedures being carried out at the equivalent of a mere embryo size, hinting that perhaps the phrase "time is of the essence" has never held truer. Additionally, it seems that having multiple abortions is now a trend, with 40% of women opting for a repeat performance like it's the latest fad diet. It's safe to say the statistics speak volumes, proving that when it comes to sexual health, the UK is not one to shy away from breaking taboos, or embryos, for that matter.
Contraception
- In 2019, 61% of women aged 16-49 in England were using at least one method of contraception
- The male condom was the most common contraceptive method used by 16-49 year olds in England in 2019 (27%)
- In 2019, 20% of women aged 16-49 in England were using oral contraceptive pills
- 14% of women aged 16-49 in England were using long-acting reversible contraceptives in 2019
- In 2019, 7% of women aged 16-49 in England relied on sterilization (male or female) for contraception
Interpretation
In a witty yet pragmatic turn of events, it seems like British women are truly taking charge of their reproductive destinies in 2019, with a veritable arsenal of contraceptive methods at their fingertips. From the trusty male condom, standing strong at 27%, to the stalwart oral contraceptive pill at 20%, these ladies are not leaving anything to chance. Let's not forget the bold 14% embracing the long-acting reversible contraceptives, a true commitment to the cause. And for the fiercely decisive 7%, sterilization is the ultimate mic drop in the contraception game. With these numbers, it's clear that British women are not just juggling life choices, but also juggling an impressive array of contraceptives to suit their individual preferences and lifestyles.
HIV/AIDS
- In 2019, there were 1,339 new HIV diagnoses in the UK
- There were an estimated 105,200 people living with HIV in the UK in 2019
- 94% of people diagnosed with HIV in the UK are on treatment
- 97% of people on HIV treatment in the UK have an undetectable viral load
- In 2019, 42% of HIV diagnoses in the UK were among gay and bisexual men
- In 2019, 98% of pregnant women in the UK were tested for HIV
Interpretation
In the realm of UK sexual health statistics, a mixed bag of numbers paints a complex portrait: from the reassuringly high treatment rates and undetectable viral loads, to the concerning incidence rate among gay and bisexual men. The data shows progress in testing pregnant women for HIV, although room for improvement remains in tackling new diagnoses. As we navigate the twists and turns of these numbers, it's clear that education, testing, and destigmatization efforts play crucial roles in the ongoing battle against HIV in the UK.
STI Complications
- In 2019, there were 2,985 cases of pelvic inflammatory disease diagnosed in sexual health services in England
- In 2019, there were 441 cases of epididymitis diagnosed in sexual health services in England
- There were 175 cases of ophthalmia neonatorum diagnosed in England in 2019
- In 2019, 25 cases of congenital syphilis were reported in England
- There were 13 reported cases of mother-to-child HIV transmission in the UK in 2019
Interpretation
The latest sexual health statistics in the UK seem to suggest that while some may view the British as reserved and buttoned-up, their pelvic regions are certainly making some noise. With almost 3,000 cases of pelvic inflammatory disease and over 400 cases of epididymitis diagnosed in 2019, it appears that not all British encounters end with a cup of tea and polite conversation. Adding a touch of drama, there were 175 instances of ophthalmia neonatorum, 25 cases of congenital syphilis, and 13 reported cases of mother-to-child HIV transmission last year. These figures serve as a sobering reminder that although scandalous headlines might grab attention, it's the quieter, unseen consequences that truly matter in the world of sexual health.
STI Prevalence
- In 2019, there were 468,342 diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in England
- Chlamydia accounted for 49% of all new STI diagnoses in 2019
- Gonorrhea diagnoses increased by 26% from 2018 to 2019
- In 2019, there were 70,936 diagnoses of gonorrhea in England
- Syphilis diagnoses increased by 10% from 2018 to 2019
- There were 7,982 diagnoses of syphilis in England in 2019
- In 2019, there were 229,411 diagnoses of chlamydia in England
- 15-24 year olds accounted for 61% of chlamydia diagnoses in 2019
Interpretation
In a year where 468,342 STIs were diagnosed in England, it seems the infamous trio of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis decided to spice things up in a not-so-festive way. Chlamydia led the pack like a determined marathon runner, while gonorrhea decided to sprint ahead with a 26% increase from the previous year—perhaps trying to win a medal for most infections. Meanwhile, syphilis nonchalantly strolled into the scene with a 10% increase, showing that it's not to be forgotten in this STI saga. Amidst the drama, the 15-24 year olds took center stage, proving that when it comes to sexual health statistics, age is just a number—not a shield against potentially awkward conversations with your GP.
STI Prevention
- The HPV vaccination program in the UK has led to a 86% reduction in HPV infections in 16-21 year old women
- In 2019/20, 84.9% of girls in England completed the two-dose HPV vaccination course by age 14
- In 2018/19, 59.5% of boys in England received their first dose of the HPV vaccine
- In 2019, 87% of people diagnosed with HIV in the UK achieved viral suppression within 6 months of starting treatment
- PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) became freely available on the NHS in England in 2020
- In 2019, there were over 5 million condoms distributed by the NHS in England
Interpretation
The latest UK sexual health statistics present a compelling narrative of progress and empowerment. The significant reduction in HPV infections among young women stands as a testament to the success of the vaccination program, with nearly 85% of girls completing the course by age 14. While the uptake among boys for the HPV vaccine may have room for improvement, the inclusion of PrEP on the NHS in 2020 highlights a commitment to comprehensive sexual health care. The impressive rate of viral suppression among HIV-diagnosed individuals further underscores the effectiveness of timely treatment. And let's not forget the 5 million condoms distributed in 2019 - a reminder that in the realm of sexual health, prevention remains as vital as ever. These numbers not only reflect positive trends but also speak to a society unapologetically embracing the importance of sexual health and well-being.
STI Screening
- In 2019, 77% of eligible people in England were screened for chlamydia
- 1.3 million chlamydia tests were carried out in England in 2019
- In 2019, 9.8% of chlamydia tests in England were positive
- 65% of chlamydia tests in England in 2019 were conducted on women
- In 2019, 98% of people diagnosed with HIV in the UK were linked to care within 3 months
- In 2019, 94% of people living with diagnosed HIV in the UK were receiving antiretroviral therapy
Interpretation
In 2019, the UK's sexual health statistics paint a revealing picture: a nation that's both proactive and vigilant in its approach. From the impressive 77% screening rate for chlamydia to the swift care provided to those diagnosed with HIV, it's clear that awareness and action are key priorities. However, the lingering question remains: why are 9.8% of chlamydia tests positive? Perhaps it's time for a deeper dive into education and prevention strategies to ensure a healthier future for all.
Sexual Behavior
- The median age of first heterosexual intercourse in Britain is 17
- In 2010-12, 29% of women and 31% of men aged 16-24 had heterosexual intercourse before age 16
- The average number of sexual partners in a lifetime for men in Britain is 11.7
- The average number of sexual partners in a lifetime for women in Britain is 7.7
- In 2010-12, 16% of women and 21% of men aged 16-74 reported having same-sex experience
- In 2010-12, 3.6% of men and 3.3% of women in Britain identified as gay, lesbian, or bisexual
Interpretation
In a land notorious for its reserved nature, these sexual health statistics paint a colorful picture of Britain's intimate exploits. From the median age of first heterosexual intercourse at a seemingly innocent 17 to the cheeky revelation that men outdo women in the lifelong partner count, it seems the Brits are not as prim and proper as their tea-drinking reputation might suggest. With a not-so-subtle nod to diversity, we see a significant portion of the population dabbling in same-sex experiences, challenging stereotypes and embracing a spectrum of sexual identities with a refreshing dose of nonchalance. So, as these numbers reveal, behind the stiff upper lip lies a nation unapologetically exploring the many hues of intimacy.
Sexual Health Services
- In 2018/19, there were 1,318,621 sexual and reproductive health service contacts in England
- 81% of sexual and reproductive health service contacts in England in 2018/19 were with women
- In 2018/19, 44% of contraception-related contacts were for oral contraceptives
- Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) accounted for 29% of contraceptive methods provided in 2018/19
- In 2018/19, there were 104,517 emergency contraception items provided by sexual and reproductive health services
Interpretation
In a society where conversations about sexual health can sometimes be as awkward as deciding what toppings to put on your pizza, these statistics paint a vivid picture of the varied ways in which individuals are taking charge of their reproductive health. With over a million service contacts in England alone, it seems that the birds and the bees are definitely having some intense discussions behind closed doors. The fact that majority of these contacts were with women is a poignant reminder that the burden of reproductive health often falls heavily on their shoulders. From popping the pill to embracing the convenience of LARCs, it's clear that modern contraception choices are as diverse as the flavors in a gelato shop. And let's not forget about the emergency contraception items - because sometimes accidents happen, and it's reassuring to know that there's a safety net available for those "oh no" moments. In conclusion, these statistics are not just numbers - they are a reflection of a society that is attempting to navigate the complex terrain of sexual health with varying degrees of success and humor.
Teenage Pregnancy
- The UK teenage pregnancy rate in 2018 was 16.8 per 1,000 women aged 15-19
- In 2018, there were 15,644 under-18 conceptions in England and Wales
- The under-18 conception rate in England and Wales decreased by 6.1% from 2017 to 2018
- In 2018, 54% of under-18 conceptions led to an abortion
- The under-16 conception rate in England and Wales in 2018 was 2.5 per 1,000 girls aged 13-15
Interpretation
In a land known for its stiff upper lip, the UK's sexual health statistics paint a revealing portrait. With a teenage pregnancy rate of 16.8 per 1,000 in 2018, it seems the birds and the bees are quite busy across the pond. However, there seems to be a trend towards discretion, as the under-18 conception rate in England and Wales dropped by 6.1% the same year. It appears that when faced with unexpected arrivals, the Brits have a penchant for pruning the family tree, with 54% of under-18 conceptions in 2018 leading to abortions. Nevertheless, the under-16 conception rate of 2.5 per 1,000 girls aged 13-15 serves as a reminder that education and access to sexual health resources are the real keys to unlocking a safe and informed future.
