News | RIVM

Men report higher rates of sexual risk behaviour women get tested for STIs more frequently

In 2025, 5% of people aged 16 and over engaged at least once in the previous 12 months in behaviour associated with higher sexual health risk—specifically, having sex without a condom with someone they are not in a long-term relationship with—.

Decrease in number of STI consultations in 2024, percentage of positive test results remains about the same

Fewer people were tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at a Sexual Health Centre (SHC) in 2024 than in 2023. People who have a higher risk of STIs can get tested for free at the SHCs.

Fewer STI-related appointments at Sexual Health Centres

The number of appointments at the Sexual Health Centres in the Netherlands that were related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) dropped by 8% in the first half of 2024, compared to the same period in the previous year. The decrease was most significant among women and heterosexual men.

Increase in STI consultations in 2023, gonorrhoea sees largest rise in cases

In 2023, more people had themselves tested for a sexually transmitted infection (STI). The total number of consultations at Sexual Health Centres (SHCs) was 172,113. That represents an increase of 4% compared to 2022.

Continuing significant increase in young adults with gonorrhoea

The number of people in the Netherlands with gonorrhoea is continuing to increase significantly. Diagnosed cases of this sexually transmitted infection increased by 31% in 2023, compared to 2022. These cases involved people who were tested at a sexual health centre operated by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs).

Increase in STI consultations in 2023, rise in gonorrhoea cases persists

The number of consultations for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at Sexual Health Centres (SHCs) was higher in the first half of 2023 compared to the previous year. Notably, the number of gonorrhoea cases continues to rise.

More STIs diagnosed in 2022, most significant increase in gonorrhoea

More people got tested for an STI at Sexual Health Centres (SHCs) in 2022 than in 2021. There were a total of 164,715 consultations at SHCs. The percentage of people found to have an STI (21%) was also higher than in 2021.