Conor Stewart
Research expert covering health & pharmaceuticals in the UK & Europe
Sexual health in Europe - statistics and facts
Sexual health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, encompassing physical, emotional, and social dimensions. Across Europe, sexual health has garnered increasing attention as societies strive to create inclusive and supportive environments for individuals to make informed choices and maintain their well-being. In recent years, European countries have made efforts to enhance sexual health education and awareness. As a result, many countries have incorporated comprehensive sexual education into their school curricula, aiming to provide young people with accurate information about relationships, consent, contraceptives, and STIs.
Sexual health significantly influences Europe's society. The goal for overall well-being is supported by changing sexual education, increasing awareness, and strong actions to address STIs. Through open conversations, better access, and reduced judgment, the continent moves towards a future where everyone values sexual health. This journey creates a story of empowerment through awareness and support, leading to informed decisions and improved well-being for diverse European communities.
Trends in Sexual Health Education and Awareness
While progress has been made, discrepancies between countries persist, with varying levels of access to sexual health information and services. Teenage pregnancy rates are declining, but further work is needed to reduce regional disparities in Europe, including equal access to abortion and youth sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. Teenage pregnancy rates have declined, although progress has been uneven across regions and countries. Countries in Eastern Europe generally had the highest rates of teenage births in Europe in 2021, with Bulgaria having the single highest share.Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections
STIs cast a considerable shadow across Europe's sexual health canvas. Cases of genital chlamydia have increased significantly in Europe in the last decade. Gonorrhea and Syphilis infections have also increased by a third since 2010. Denmark had the highest chlamydia reporting rate in 2021, with over 627 cases per 100,000 people, followed by Iceland, which had a notification rate of over 490. Chlamydia is one of the most prevalent STIs in Europe, and it is mostly spread through unprotected sexual contact.Sexual health significantly influences Europe's society. The goal for overall well-being is supported by changing sexual education, increasing awareness, and strong actions to address STIs. Through open conversations, better access, and reduced judgment, the continent moves towards a future where everyone values sexual health. This journey creates a story of empowerment through awareness and support, leading to informed decisions and improved well-being for diverse European communities.
