Sexually Transmitted Infections in Women

Overview

Sexually transmitted infections in women comprise the spectrum of bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections acquired through sexual contact, considered in light of the distinct anatomical, physiological, and reproductive vulnerabilities of the female genital tract. Common agents include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, herpes simplex virus, HIV, and human papillomavirus. Many of these infections are asymptomatic or produce nonspecific symptoms in women, delaying diagnosis and allowing ascending infection. Untreated lower genital tract infection can progress to pelvic inflammatory disease, with sequelae including chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and tubal-factor infertility, while persistent high-risk HPV is a principal cause of cervical precancer and cancer. Infections during pregnancy carry additional risks, including adverse birth outcomes and vertical transmission, as seen with congenital syphilis. Biological susceptibility, mucosal exposure, and social and structural factors can increase women's risk of acquisition relative to men. Screening, including cervical cytology and HPV and pathogen-specific testing, together with prompt treatment and partner management, is central to limiting complications and transmission. Prevalence studies and laboratory analyses of collected samples characterize the burden and distribution of these infections across populations. Addressing sexually transmitted infections in women therefore requires attention to reproductive consequences, asymptomatic carriage, equitable access to screening and treatment, and the broader determinants shaping exposure and outcomes.

Research published in this journal

6 peer-reviewed articles, ranked by relevance. Each links to its DOI.

This page summarises published research for orientation; it is not medical or professional advice.

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