Women's information and support needs for STD testing and infertility prevention

Background: Annual Chlamydia screening is recommended for sexually active women <25 years, yet only about 40% of eligible women get screened yearly. To promote Chlamydia screening for the prevention of infertility, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) is developing a national campaign for sexually active young women, ages 15-25 years. CDC conducted research to identify audiences' specific information and support needs for the promotion of testing.

Methods: A total of 18 focus groups were conducted in four cities to test draft content and resources (e.g., basic information, tips for talking to your doctor/partner) that could be offered as part of a campaign. Groups were segmented by age, race/ethnicity and work/school status (older segments only).

Results: Participants preferred information that was brief, straightforward and factual. They rejected language that either minimized the severity of Chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases (e.g., get treated and move on with your life), or the challenges to getting tested (e.g., it's no big deal). Participants wanted Chlamydia statistics that made it attention-getting and relevant, as well as information about its symptoms, possible consequences, treatment and prevention—for both women and men.

Conclusion: Messages should provide factual, straightforward information with specific details about Chlamydia's prevalence and potential consequences to gain audience attention and increase knowledge. Messages should acknowledge the practical and psychosocial barriers to testing that exist for many women. Specific language recommendations will be offered to guide public health communications with young women about Chlamydia, STDs, and infertility prevention.