Gauteng health discourages love without protection this Valentine’s Day
As couples prepare to celebrate love this Valentine’s Day, the Gauteng Department of Health is reminding residents that the greatest expression of love is protection. The Department is encouraging all sexually active individuals to practice safe sex and avoid “love without protection”.
Recent statistics show encouraging progress in the province’s fight against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and teenage pregnancies.
For instance, in 2025 calendar year (January to December), a total of 808 899 males between the ages of 15 and 49 were screened for STIs, a significant increase from 487 386 screened in 2024. During the same period, new cases of Male Urethritis Syndrome treated among males (15 – 49) decreased from 79 821 in 2024 to 65 144 in 2025.
This is an indication that more men are coming forward for testing, while fewer are requiring treatment for new infections. It is a strong indication that preventative messages are reaching the heart of the communities.
Another positive trend is the growing uptake of female condoms. In the 2024/2025 financial year, the department exceeded its annual female condom distribution target by 153%. A total of 10 495 782 female condoms were distributed, far surpassing the target of 6 860 612. This milestone signals a positive shift, showing that more women are taking control of their sexual and reproductive health, a significant improvement compared to previous years when female condom uptake was low.
Despite notable progress, the Department is deeply concerned about teenage pregnancy in the province. From April 2024 to March 2025, Gauteng health facilities recorded 23 544 deliveries and termination of pregnancies among girls aged 10 to 19 years. Although this number decreased to 15 919 in 2025, it remains significantly high. This trend can be attributed to the Department’s ongoing efforts to promote awareness and implement prevention campaigns.
The Department continues to intensify school health programmes and youth-friendly services to combat teenage pregnancy and raise awareness on sexual education.
Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Ms Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has issued a stern warning to older men who prey on young girls:
“My plea to older men is to stop enticing young girls with expensive gifts for Valentines Day, which ultimately destroy their futures. Such relationships often expose young girls to STIs and unwanted pregnancies. Our children belong in schools, pursuing their dreams, not in clinics treating preventable diseases. I therefore urge community members to report any sexual relationships involving minors.”
This Valentine’s Day, the Department encourage residents to visit their nearest public health facility to access free condoms, for both male and female. Real love prioritises health, prevention is always better than cure.
