Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) cause a range of health problems, from mild acute illness to serious long term consequences including: infertility, ectopic pregnancy, chronic pelvic pain, cancer, liver disease, nervous system damage, disease and death of the newborn, increased transmission of HIV (though also an STD, HIV is beyond the scope of this guide), and more. By definition, STDs occur in networks of sexually interactive individuals and require treatment on both the individual and population level.

STDs are frequently asymptomatic but cause significant morbidity for the prisoner, his/her sexual partners, their babies and the community. Given that many of these high risk individuals have not, or could not, access health care in the community, incarceration provides an important opportunity to screen for and treat STDs, which should not be missed. Early detection, comprehensive treatment, continuity or care, prevention, education, and gathering data to guide care are basic components of public health STD care for correctional settings.

For Technical Assistance questions contact Charlie Rabins, Consultant, Capacity-Building.