Sexual Risk Behavior

Sexual risk behaviors constitute a range of sexual actions that increase individuals’ risk for bacterial and viral sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and for unintended pregnancy. Increased sexual risk results from a combination of the specific sexual behavior and the level of protective action used. Contextual factors, such as drug and alcohol use, can also influence the level of risk involved. While abstinence and autoeroticism are the only truly effective methods of preventing unintended pregnancy and STIs, various risk-reduction strategies exist. Ultimately, sexual behaviors fall on a risk continuum, which depends on the sexual behavior and the protective action employed.