Cypriphobia

Cypriphobia is classed as a social phobia because the fear stems from interactions with other people, in this case sex workers or anyone who may pass on a sexually transmitted disease.

People with cypriphobia, called cypriphobes, typically manage their fear by avoiding situations that trigger them. They are unlikely to see a sex worker or have sexual intercourse with anyone they don’t know well. They may insist on using a condom or compel their partner to get regular tests for sexually transmitted diseases, even when they’re in long-term monogamous relationships. They may even avoid relationships or sexual contact completely to stay disease-free.

While these behaviors and demands might help manage the phobia’s symptoms, they don’t address the real problem. If cypriphobia starts impacting relationships and other aspects of their lives, cypriphobes may seek therapy to modify their way of thinking and overcome their fears. This treatment option typically works better than drug therapy.