Prevalence and Correlates of and Reasons for Non-Disclosure to Male Partners among African-American Adolescent Females with an STD History

Context: Disclosing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) to partners helps facilitate partner treatment and prevent recurrent infection

Objective: To investigate prevalence and correlates of and reasons for non-disclosure to male partners among African-American adolescent females with an STD history

Methods: Sociodemographic, psychosocial, sexual behavior and STD history data were collected via ACASI from 715 African-American adolescent females, 15-21 years, seeking services at reproductive health clinics. Data were obtained prior to randomization in an HIV prevention intervention. Using logistic models, study variables were compared for those who did and did not disclose their last STD to their male partner.

Results: A total of 388 (54%) participants reported an STD history; 103 (28%) reported their partner was not treated the last time they had an STD, and 32 (31%) of those reported not telling their partner about their STD after being treated. Frequently cited reasons for non-disclosure included not knowing what to say (22%) and embarrassment (16%). Among those whose partners were not treated, non-disclosure was associated with: living in a household receiving fewer forms of public assistance (p=.04), being less upset by the diagnosis (p=.04), lower sense of mastery (p=.04), current school enrollment (p=.01), higher family support (p=.03) and never being physically abused (p=.05).

Conclusions: Many STD-positive female adolescents do not notify their male partners of their diagnosis, increasing the probability of recurrent infections and STD transmission to others. Intervention programs should seek to promote partner notification and treatment by helping adolescents approach and communicate effectively with their partners.