Exploring Gen Z's Use of AI Chatbots for Sexual Health Diagnosis

In recent years, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) has permeated various aspects of our lives, and sexual health is no exception. A new survey from Testing.com highlights a particularly fascinating trend among Generation Z, revealing that many young adults are turning to AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, for guidance regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and diseases (STDs).

According to the survey conducted in January 2026 involving 2,520 U.S. Gen Z adults aged 18 to 29, approximately 20% of respondents reported that they have sought assistance from AI chatbots regarding sexual health inquiries. Notably, 10% of these individuals directly asked an AI tool to help identify potential STIs or STDs. Alarmingly, among those who subsequently sought medical testing, 31% stated that the chatbot’s initial diagnosis had been incorrect.

This increasing trend illustrates that AI chatbots have evolved into informal diagnostic resources for sensitive medical issues, particularly during a time when discussions on sexual health can still be stigmatized. The survey also revealed that 52% of those who consulted an AI for diagnostics shared photos during the conversation, while nearly all provided detailed accounts of their symptoms. Many included information about their recent sexual activities or potential exposures, further exposing the reliance on chatbots to navigate these intimate and personal health matters.

Despite the evident concern regarding the accuracy of the information provided by these digital assistants, the degree of trust and the likelihood of future use among Gen Z remains surprising. Approximately 92% of respondents who interacted with AI regarding STIs or STDs expressed their intent to use such services again. In fact, 35% of the surveyed population claimed they felt more at ease discussing sexual health topics with an AI chatbot rather than a medical professional. This finding raises questions about the evolving nature of doctor-patient interactions and the growing comfort with AI in personal health.

However, healthcare professionals such as Dr. Toni Brayer, an internal medicine specialist, advise caution regarding this trend. Dr. Brayer highlights that while AI chatbots can serve as an entry point for sexual health education, they should not be relied upon for definitive diagnoses. The quality of information available from chatbots largely depends on the specificity of the users’ inquiries, and numerous medical conditions can present similar symptoms, which may lead to misdiagnosis.

Dr. Brayer stresses, "A chatbot is not a replacement for medical professionals or actual testing, such as blood, urine tests, swabs, or cultures, which are critical in confirming any infections."

This emerging reliance on AI technology for medical advice emphasizes a significant cultural shift among younger adults; while convenience plays a crucial role, the overarching theme reveals a desire for accessible and immediate information on health matters that traditionally may be difficult to discuss openly.

In conclusion, as AI chatbots continue to develop and proliferate, it becomes increasingly pertinent for both users and healthcare providers to understand their limitations. A balance must be struck between utilizing such innovative tools for initial inquiries while still advocating for appropriate medical evaluations and discussions. Awareness regarding the shortcomings of AI in sensitive health aspects, along with public education on sexual health, should go hand in hand, ensuring that Generation Z is equipped with accurate information and guidance in their health journeys.

For full survey results, please visit Testing.com.