Sexual Behaviors of Dating Apps Users: A Descriptive Study in French Population

BACKGROUND: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a major public health concern with rising incidence worldwide. Dating applications have reshaped partner acquisition and sexual networking patterns, yet data on French users remain limited. This study aimed to describe sexual behaviors among dating app users in France and identify behavioral profiles. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional survey using an anonymous questionnaire distributed June-August 2024 through dating applications, social media, and community outreach. Participants reporting dating app use within the past 12 months were eligible. Descriptive analyses were performed, followed by multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) to identify behavioral profiles. RESULTS: A total of 230 participants completed the survey (44.3% men, 53.0% women, 2.6% non-binary), predominantly aged 18-30 years. Higher exposure patterns, including more frequent app use, higher partner turnover, and increased STI screening (71.4% within the past 6 months), were more common among men who have sex with men (MSM). Condom use was inconsistent across sexual practices, with more than 60% of participants reporting never using protection during oral sex. MCA revealed three behavioral profiles reflecting a gradient of exposure and prevention: a lower-exposure profile primarily involving men who have sex with women (MSW), a higher-exposure profile predominantly involving MSM, and an intermediate profile mainly involving women who have sex with men (WSM). CONCLUSIONS: Dating app users in France are not behaviorally homogeneous. Distinct profiles reveal misalignment between exposure, prevention, and screening engagement, highlighting the need for sexual health strategies beyond exposure-based assumptions.