Stigma, Delayed Treatment, and Spousal Notification Among Male Patients With Sexually Transmitted Disease in China

Abstract

Stigmatization may prevent effective control of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in China. Thus, its impact needs to be studied. The goal of the study was to explore the effect of perceived stigmatization on control of STDs. A cross-sectional study was conducted among males attending four STD clinics for the first time for a current STD. Among 406 patients, 80% felt stigmatized, 28% sought treatment only after suffering symptoms for at least 1 week, and 40% reported continuing to have sex while having symptoms. No association was observed between feelings of stigmatization and delay in seeking treatment. Among those married, 77% expressed unwillingness to notify their spouses. Patients who felt stigmatized were less likely to agree to notify their spouses (odds ratio, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.21–0.85). Policies are needed to reduce stigmatization, reduce time to treatment, and promote disclosure to sex partners.