An Investigation Into the Relationship Between STI-Related Stigma and the Psychological and Social Wellbeing of Individuals Diagnosed With an STI in an Irish Sample: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Little is known about the relationship between the stigma associated with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and the psychosocial wellbeing of those living with STIs. Stigma stems from societal norms and no prior study has explored this relationship among adults living in Ireland, where traditionally chaste and religious views regarding sexuality are upheld. The present study aimed to explore the psychosocial wellbeing of adults living with STIs in Ireland and identify if female and Catholic participants were disproportionately affected by STI-related stigma. 685 participants (224 male, 450 female, 10 non-binary, 1 unknown, aged 18-51 years) completed an online survey consisting of questions regarding demographic information, STI history, four measures of wellbeing (depression/anxiety, mental wellbeing, self-esteem and social wellbeing) and STI-related stigma. Participants reporting higher STI-related stigma had significantly lower psychosocial wellbeing than those reporting lower STI-related stigma (p < .001). Females with an STI reported significantly higher STI-related stigma (p = .001) and significantly lower psychosocial wellbeing than males (p = .001). No differences were found in overall wellbeing or stigma between those with and without an STI and between Catholics and non-Catholics. Based on these findings, it is recommended that targeted support is provided to women and those living in culturally stigmatising environments to buffer the risk of stigmatisation and decreased psychosocial wellbeing associated with an STI diagnosis.