The number of teenagers diagnosed with STIs has more than doubled in the space of a year, figures show.
Preliminary data from the HSE reveal that 783 teenagers have tested positive for sexually-transmitted infections so far in 2023.
The alarming statistics include three children under the age of 14 – with two being treated for chlamydia and one for genital herpes.
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Data for 2022 reported a total of 950 STI diagnoses among teenagers, suggesting that this year’s final figures once adjusted will show a huge rise in infections.
The spike may be fuelled by the ready availability of pornography on the internet, according to genito urinary consultant Dr Derek Freedman, a specialist in STIs.
He told The Sunday Mirror: "There is a great concern about pornography and sexualisation being so easily available through the internet.
"It encourages vulnerable kids [to experiment]... It’s important for parents to realise that kids have a natural degree of curiosity.
"You can’t stop them looking at pornography, but you have to let them know it’s not for real, it’s acting, and that is not how people actually behave. As a parent, you have to be open, and able to talk to your young adults, if you are to help and inform them."
Chlamydia accounts for the majority of STI treatments in Ireland this year with 4,311 cases, followed by gonorrhoea.
Dr Freedman warned of an impending "epidemic" of gonorrhoea, which has no obvious symptoms.
He revealed: "I’m seeing far more cases in a month now than I ever saw in a year, and I am seeing them in all society.
"That is very alarming. While we should be concerned, we are dealing with infections that are readily treatable.
"The important thing is to be tested."
New research has shown gonorrhoea is now being spread via saliva through deep kissing or oral sex, and not just through penetrative sex.
Experts blame "performative sex" acted out in pornographic videos which is encouraging young teens to engage in risky sexual activities.
Dr Freedman said: "It is so important for parents that children can talk to them, and that they will support them.
"While it’s very concerning to see an increase in cases, it’s heartening to know that at least people are going to the clinics and doctors to be tested."
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