April 1-30

STI Awareness Month

It's time to break the stigma and spread awareness about STIs during STI Awareness Month - get educated, get tested, and stay safe!

Yearly Date

All of April

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Get ready to increase your knowledge and awareness about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as we celebrate STI Awareness Month throughout April! This month is dedicated to educating the public about the risks and prevention of STIs, as well as promoting safe and healthy sexual practices. Did you know that this observance originally began in 2005 as National STD Awareness Month? And while the name has changed, the importance of spreading awareness remains the same. So let's join together in taking charge of our sexual health and promoting a world free of STIs.

STI Awareness Month Timeline

1981

First Identified AIDS cases

The CDC officially recognized and reported the first cases of AIDS, a disease caused by the HIV virus, a sexually transmitted infection.

1990

HPV Connection to Cervical Cancer

Research established a firm link between human papillomavirus (HPV), an STI, and cervical cancer, pushing further the need for STI awareness and prevention.

2005

1st STD Awareness Month

National STD Awareness Month made its debut in the United States to promote education and prevention about sexually transmitted diseases.

2012

Introduction of PrEP

The FDA approved Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a breakthrough medication proven to reduce the risk of sexually acquiring HIV.

2020

Shift from STDs to STIs

National STD Awareness Month is renamed to National STI Awareness Month reflecting a more accurate terminology and reducing stigma surrounding these infections.

How to Celebrate STI Awareness Month

1 Host a safe sex workshop

Gather friends, family, or community members and organize a safe sex workshop to educate others about STIs and how to prevent them.

2 Distribute informational flyers

Create and distribute flyers with important information about STIs, including prevention methods and where to get tested.

3 Organize a fundraiser for a local STI clinic

Support your local STI clinic by organizing a fundraiser event or donation drive to help them continue providing important services to the community.

4 Share your story on social media

Use your platform on social media to share your personal experience with STIs, raise awareness, and reduce stigma surrounding these infections.

5 Organize a free STI testing event

Partner with a local clinic or organization to host a free STI testing event, providing easy and accessible testing for those who may not have access to it otherwise.

Why STI Awareness Month is Important

To promote education and awareness

STI Awareness Month serves as a reminder for people to educate themselves on sexually transmitted infections and how they can be prevented. It's important for individuals to have accurate information and resources about STIs in order to make informed decisions regarding their sexual health.

To encourage testing and treatment

During STI Awareness Month, health organizations often offer free or discounted testing for STIs in order to promote early detection and treatment. This is essential for preventing the spread of infections and helping individuals receive necessary medical care.

To reduce stigma surrounding STIs

Many individuals feel shame or embarrassment when it comes to discussing or seeking treatment for STIs. By raising awareness and promoting open, non-judgmental conversations about STI prevention and treatment, we can help reduce the stigma associated with these infections.

Holiday Dates

Year	Dates	Days
2023	Apr 1 to 30	Saturday to Sunday
2024	Apr 1 to 30	Monday to Tuesday
2025	Apr 1 to 30	Tuesday to Wednesday
2026	Apr 1 to 30	Wednesday to Thursday
2027	Apr 1 to 30	Thursday to Friday