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Talking about sex can be awkward (but it shouldn't be!)
Since our initial Sex Lives Report in 2022, LetsStopAIDS, in collaboration with the Angus Reid Group, has dug deep into the factors affecting Canadian youth's sexual experiences. We found Canadians were using fewer condoms, feeling more mental health pressures, and getting more sexually adventurous...
Shamin Mohamed Jr.
Founder & President
LetsStopAIDS
Report Overview
Evidently, young Canadians felt that Sex-Ed classes provided them with an abundance of scientific information but was severely lacking in practical knowledge or skills that may be used in real life.
Currently, Sex-Ed is leaving youth without the practical knowledge that would help them navigate their sexual lives. Respondents noted the lack of explicit instruction on safe sexual practices that would reduce the chances of getting STIs.
Overwhelmingly, young Canadians had scathing reviews of their Sex-Ed experience. The most common topics they wish they had been taught were Gender & Sexual Identity, Consent & Relationships, Pleasure, Female Sexual Health, and the pros & cons of Porn.
The percentage of youth who reported wearing condoms “all the time” during sex went from 53% in 2020 to 23% in 2023. Given this shocking statistic, it is clear that youth are more susceptible to STI & HIV transmission. This research also makes clear that Canadian youth see condoms primarily as methods of pregnancy prevention.
Despite recent spikes in STIs and HIV transmission, and young people's higher risk of being infected, 80% of young Canadians do not engage in regular STI and HIV testing. Additionally, a staggering 27% of youth diagnosed with HIV or an STI did NOT receive treatment.
2023 Video Campaign - We've Got Questions
Theory Vs. Practice
1 in 3 young Canadians felt that sex-ed made them feel scared to have sex.
Young Canadians want more practical guidance and actionable information that would assist them in navigating sexual relationships, communication, decision-making, and acquiring the necessary skills to engage in safe and enjoyable sexual experiences.
Theory Vs. Practice
“We were scared into thinking having sex will give you an STD or you'll get pregnant and you'll ruin your life.”
Zhāng*, Victoria, British Columbia
“Being shamed for having sex and being told if you get raped you won't get pregnant cause god knows you don't want that baby.”
Jamie*, Dieppe, New Brunswick
“[I remember] the teacher slut shaming one of the girls.”
Uche*, Mississauga, Ontario
Missing in action
responded they wish Gender & Sexual Identity was covered in sex-ed
Many respondents expressed their belief that the sex-ed they received was primarily heteronormative, lacking coverage of diverse identities and failing to address the complexities of gender and sexual orientation.
Only 34% of young Canadians recall learning about sexuality and sexual orientation, and only 19% remember learning about gender identity.
Condoms
While the trend to never wear a condom is concerning, there has been a general shift over the last year to reduce condom use overall. This is most alarming for the dramatic decline in the percentage of youth who reported wearing condoms “all the time” during sex, from 53% in 2020 to 23% in 2023.
STIs & HIV
Cases of gonorrhoea have almost tripled over the past decade. More than half of the new infections are among people under the age of 30.
27% do of youth that were diagnosed with STI(s) and/or HIV reported that they did not receive treatment.
80% of young Canadians did not engage in regular STI & HIV testing in the last 6 months.
Closing Remarks
This online study was conducted by LetsStopAIDS among a representative sample of 1,090 Canadians 18-24 years who are members of the Angus Reid Forum. The sample was balanced and weighted on gender and region. The survey was conducted in English and French.
For comparison purposes only, a randomized sample of n=1,080 would yield a margin of error of +/1 3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20. All sample surveys and polls may be subject to other sources of error, including, but not limited to coverage error, and measurement error.
The Angus Reid Forum is Canada’s most well-known and trusted online public opinion community consisting of engaged residents across the country who answer surveys on topical issues that matter to all Canadians
