What is the role of sexual health services in the delivery of primary prevention of sexually transmitted infections? A narrative review.

ABSTRACT

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affect hundreds of millions of people globally. The resulting impact on quality of life and the economy for health systems is huge. Specialist sexual health services (SHS) play a key role in the provision of primary prevention interventions targeted against STIs. We conducted a narrative review to explore the role of SHSs in delivering primary prevention interventions for STIs. Established interventions include education and awareness building, condom promotion, and the provision of vaccines. Nascent interventions such as the use of antibiotics as pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis are not currently recommended, but have already been adopted by some key population groups. The shift to delivering SHS through digital health technologies may help to reduce barriers to access for some individuals, but creates challenges for the delivery of primary prevention and may inadvertently increase health inequities. Intervention development will need to consider carefully these shifting models of service delivery so that existing primary prevention options are not side-lined and that new interventions reach those who can benefit most.