[Perception of the risk to adquire a sexually transmitted disease in a young population]

To find out the perception of the risk of adquire a sexually transmitted disease (STD) in young people (15-21 years), and their attitudes and behaviour to adopt protective measures in sexual relationships.

Socioconstructive qualitative study performed between the years 2006 and 2008

Two Primary Care Centres in the city of Girona.

A total of 34 young people selected from lists provided by doctors and key informers.

Theoretical sample from different designed profiles. The data was obtained and saturated by performing 5 group interviews. A thematic content analysis of the narrative data was made of the categorical subject.

They had partial knowledge on AIDS and very little on other STD. The risk of pregnancy has the most influence on adopting protective measures. Despite easy access and knowledge of condoms, in some cases they are not used either in stable relationships or in sporadic ones, with different reasons for having this risk behaviour. They have limited contact with the health services, and when they do it is mainly to ask for emergency contraception.

Health strategies should be directed towards adolescents, taking into account what they need from the health services as regards sexual health, in a different context from the health centre. Information should be focused on combating erroneous beliefs, such as AIDS is a disease of "others" and not "ours", and address these actions, not only to improve knowledge and attitudes but also changes in behaviour.