Seasonsal variations in the reported incidence of sexually transmitted diseases in Scotland (1972-76)

The seasonal variation in the quarterly incidence of some sexually transmitted diseases and other conditions in Scotland is compared with that of gonorrhoea and of conceptions leading to live births or abortions. The seasonal incidence for non-specific genital infections and for other conditions not requiring treatment in both men and women was similar to that of gonorrhoea, thus indicating an association with promiscuity, whereas the seasonal variation for candidosis in men and women-an infection not usually associated with promiscuity-was similar to that of conceptions. Differences between the sexes occurred, however, in the seasonal incidences of scabies, pubic lice, genital herpes, trichomoniasis, and other conditions requiring treatment; thus men with these conditions appeared to be more promiscuous than women. The seasonal variations in incidence of genital scabies and pubic lice indicate that these infestations are more easily transmitted by close bodily contact indoors during cold weather than in the open air.