What Concerns do Young Adults in Ireland Have about Attending Health Services for STD Testing?

Thirty Irish young adults (between eighteen and twenty-nine years of age) were interviewed about their experiences of accessing and attending healthcare settings for STD (sexually transmitted disease) testing. Four principle themes emerged: the risk of stigma as a result of seeking STD testing; the need to engage in impression management activities while accessing information about STD testing; the importance of using healthcare settings that supported rather than undermined impression management attempts; and identity risks experienced while waiting in clinic reception areas. Findings are discussed in relation to previous research on this topic.