Over half of 18 to 30 year olds in Ireland have never tested for an STI

A recent survey* commissioned by the HSE found that 55% of 18–30 year olds in Ireland have never tested for a sexually transmitted infection (STI). The research was undertaken to better understand the factors contributing to a rise in STIs in young people. STIs are more common in people under the age of 29, particularly women aged 20-24**.

It has been more than three years since the HSE launched the free home STI testing service (in October 2022). Since then, 363,752 home-testing kits have been ordered, and of that, there have been 25,380 positive or reactive results***.

The survey explored attitudes towards STI testing by asking respondents to agree or disagree with a range of statements:

• Over half (56%) agreed that if they ordered a home STI test a parent, housemate or someone they lived with would find it in the post
• Almost half (46%) agreed that some STI testing procedures are intrusive and painful
• 7 in 10 (70%) agreed that testing is stressful when you think about the possible consequences of knowing you have an STI
• 3 in 4 (76%) agreed it was hard to tell a new partner if you have an STI because of how they might react
• Over 1 in 4 (28%) agreed that if neither partner raised the issue, it was OK to assume both are clear of STIs

Speaking about the findings, Professor Fiona Lyons, National Clinical Lead, HSE Sexual Health Programme, said: “So many people that we surveyed find STI testing stressful and more than a half have never tested for an STI. We would like them to know that the more you build STI testing into your self-care routine, the less stressful it will be. Normalising STI testing helps us all take better care of our sexual health. Taking care of our sexual health is something we should all do, just like taking care of our dental health. Not all STIs have symptoms, so the only way to know is to do a test.

“STIs are treatable. Untreated, some STIs can cause serious health complications, including infertility. I encourage those who haven’t tested before to visit sexualwellbeing.ie to learn more about when and how to test, and about available free testing services.”

Ordering a free home STI test kit is free and easy. You complete a short online assessment. A text is sent to you when the kit is dispatched. The kit arrives in plain, letterbox-friendly packaging. There is no information about the kit or the sender on the packaging. The kit includes clear visual instructions as well as links to YouTube videos to help users take the test correctly. The videos demonstrate how to use each part of the kit and provide practical tips on how to make taking the blood sample easier, such as taking a hot shower first.  

Test results are provided by text or a phone call from a member of the SH:24 clinical team, usually within 72 hours. The home STI testing service tests for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV and syphilis. Some users are offered hepatitis B and C testing.

HSE Clinical Nurse Specialist and Sexual Health Advisor, David Field, said: “As a sexual health advisor, I know STI testing can be daunting, especially the first time. The good news is testing has never been easier. Home testing offers privacy and convenience; clinics offer support and any follow-up care, if needed. Whether you use a free home kit or a free clinic appointment, the key is to test regularly, not just when you’re worried. Many STIs have no symptoms, and if something is found, rest assured, free treatment is available and effective. Your sexual health matters; it’s part of your overall health. Arrange a test today.”

In 2024, there was a total of 20,576 STI notifications in Ireland. People aged 20 to 29 accounted for over half (51%) of these notifications. Chlamydia was the most common STI notification in this age group, making up almost two-thirds (65%) of notifications in this age range. The second most common STI was gonorrhoea, making up nearly a quarter (23%) of all notifications in people aged 20 to 29.

Information about STI testing locations, the HSE free home STI testing service, and how to access free condoms, is available at sexualwellbeing.ie

Today, the HSE publishes the Research Summary: Young People’s Sexual Health in Ireland: Insights from a 2025 HSE Survey