Hidden Risks: Prevalence of Non-Disclosure of STIs Among American Adults
A significant portion of the adult population in the United States are concealing their status as carriers of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from their partners, according to a recent survey. The findings, compiled by Testing.com in February 2026, reveal that nearly half (45%) of individuals who tested positive for an STI have withheld this information from a sexual partner at least once. This non-disclosure extends across various types of relationships, from casual encounters to committed partnerships, raising concerns about public health and relationship dynamics.
The survey data indicates a concerning pattern of behavior. Of those who have concealed their STI status, a substantial 59% also reported engaging in unprotected sex without informing their partners. This practice significantly elevates the risk of transmission, potentially leading to widespread spread of infections. The reluctance to disclose is not limited to casual relationships; the data shows that 32% of respondents withheld information from casual partners, 22% from dating partners (non-exclusive), and 24% during one-time encounters. This extends to more serious relationships, with 13% failing to disclose to a committed, monogamous partner and 9% concealing their status from a spouse.
Dr. Toni Brayer, an internal medicine doctor and member of Testing.com’s medical review board, emphasizes the serious health consequences associated with non-disclosure. She states that STIs like chlamydia, syphilis, HPV warts, and HIV can cause a range of health problems, including infertility, chronic pain, and even death. Furthermore, concealing an STI is not only a breach of trust but also puts partners at considerable risk. Open communication regarding sexual health is crucial for enabling both partners to make informed decisions about testing, treatment, and protection.
The primary reason cited for not disclosing an STI is embarrassment or shame, reported by 49% of respondents. A further 33% attributed their decision to the influence of alcohol or the heat of the moment, while another 33% believed the risk of transmission was low. A notable 27% stated they did not want to jeopardize the relationship, and 24% didn’t want to ruin the moment. Interestingly, 16% simply felt that disclosure was not necessary. Dr. Brayer stresses that STIs can be transmitted even in the absence of symptoms, and that anyone who is sexually active is susceptible, regardless of their sexual history. She points out that societal stigma surrounding sex often contributes to feelings of shame and reluctance to discuss sexual health openly.
The consequences of non-disclosure are evident in the survey findings. Seventeen percent of those who chose not to disclose reported that a partner later contracted an STI from them. Alarmingly, even after transmission occurs, over half of those who withheld their status would not admit to having done so, even after a partner tests positive. Dr. Brayer advocates for preventative measures, including consistent and correct condom use, HPV and Hepatitis B vaccination for adolescents, and regular STI testing, as key strategies for preventing and managing STIs.
While a majority of respondents (74%) believe that sexual partners have a right to be informed before engaging in sexual activity, a significant 24% believe it depends on the situation, and 2% believe partners do not always have a right to know. The survey also revealed that younger men are more likely than women to report having sex without disclosing a positive STI diagnosis. Younger adults are also more likely than older Americans to conceal their status.
