Official websites use. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. This study aimed to comprehensively assess the knowledge, awareness, and misconceptions regarding sexually transmitted infections STIs among women in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with women aged 18β55 from various regions across the country. The findings revealed moderate overall STI knowledge, with gaps in understanding transmission routes Demographic factors such as age, education level, and marital status significantly influenced STI knowledge, while residential area did not.
Digital platforms like the internet and social media emerged as significant sources of STI information. This study highlights the need for targeted educational interventions, integration of sexual health education into curricula, training healthcare providers, community engagement, and leveraging digital platforms to enhance STI awareness and prevention efforts among Saudi women.
Keywords: sexually transmitted infections, knowledge, awareness, misconceptions, Saudi Arabia. Sexually transmitted infections STIs represent a significant public health challenge globally, affecting millions of individuals each year [ 1 ]. These infections can lead to severe health complications, including infertility, ectopic pregnancies, chronic pelvic pain, and increased susceptibility to HIV [ 2 , 3 ]. Despite their prevalence and impact, STIs are often surrounded by stigma, misinformation, and a lack of awareness, particularly in regions with conservative cultural norms [ 4 ].
This is particularly relevant in Saudi Arabia, where traditional cultural values and religious beliefs significantly influence sexual health education and awareness [ 5 , 6 ]. In Saudi Arabia, the social and cultural context presents unique challenges for STI awareness and prevention. This environment contributes to a lack of comprehensive sexual health education, which is crucial for effective STI prevention and management [ 9 , 10 ].
Studies have shown that in societies where sexuality is a taboo subject, there is often a significant gap in knowledge regarding STIs, their transmission, symptoms, and prevention methods. This knowledge gap can lead to delays in seeking treatment and contribute to the spread of infections [ 11 , 12 ]. Previous research in the Middle East has highlighted a general lack of awareness and misconceptions about STIs among the population.
