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What Is Your Risk of Contracting a Sexually Transmitted Disease?

A variety of factors interact to determine your risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD). This inventory is intended to provide you with an estimate of your level of risk.

Circle the number in each row that best characterizes you. Enter that number on the line at the end of the row (points). After assigning yourself a number in each row, total the number appearing in the points column. Your total points will allow you to interpret your risk for contracting an STD.

Age Points
1 3 4 5 3 2 _____
0-9 10-14 15-19 20-29 30-34 35+  
Sexual Practices
0 1 2 4 6 8 _____
Never engage in sex One sex partner More than one sex partner but never more than one at a time Two to five sex partners Five to ten sex partners Ten or more sex partners  
Sexual Attitudes
0 1 8 1 7 8 _____
Will not engage in non-marital sex Premarital sex is okay if it is with future spouse Any kind of premarital sex is okay Extramarital sex is not for me Extramarital sex is okay Believe in complete sexual freedom  
Attitudes toward Contraception
1 1 6 5 4 8 _____
Would use condom to prevent pregnancy Would use condom to prevent STDs Would never use a condom Would use the birth control pill Would use other contraceptive measures Would not use anything  
Attitudes toward STD
3 3 4 6 6 6 _____
Am not sexually active so I do not worry Would be able to talk about STD with my partner Would check an infection to be sure Would be afraid to check out an infection Can't even talk about an infection STDs are no problem - easily cured  
Total Points _____
Interpretation
  • 5-8: Your risk is well below average
  • 9-13: Your risk is below average
  • 14-17: Your risk is at or near average
  • 18-21: Your risk is moderately high
  • 22+: Your risk is high
To Carry This Further

Having taken this Personal Assessment, were you surprised at your level of risk? What is the primary reason for this level? How concerned are you and your classmates and friends about contracting an STD?


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