The Sexually transmitted infections CPG has been updated and reviewed by the CPG Committee and endorsed by the Paediatric Improvement Collaborative (December 2022). This updated CPG now includes genital warts and herpes infection as well as other common sexually transmitted infections affecting young people.   

CPG key points  

1. Many STIs are asymptomatic, but can cause serious complications 
2. STI screening and counselling about prevention should be offered opportunistically to all sexually active adolescents who present for healthcare 
3. Adolescents have a legal right to confidential care and adequate information in order to consent to investigation and management 
4. Rarely, STIs may be an indication of sexual abuse. If concerns of sexual abuse, urgent referral to appropriate local services is needed, as time-critical samples may be required