STI Awareness
CURRENT GUIDANCE UPDATE
Global STI Burden
Approximately 374 million new curable sexually transmitted infections occur globally each year, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and trichomoniasis.
Chlamydia Screening
Chlamydia remains the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection worldwide, with nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) considered the gold standard diagnostic test.
Annual STI Testing
Annual screening for chlamydia and gonorrhoea is recommended for all sexually active women under 25 years and older women with recognised risk factors.
Early Detection & Prevention
Routine screening, prompt treatment and partner notification play a vital role in preventing complications, reducing transmission and protecting reproductive health.
Introduction
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually transmitted infections are common and often asymptomatic in women. Early diagnosis, prompt treatment, regular screening and partner notification are essential to prevent complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility and chronic pelvic pain.
Major Infections in Women
- Chlamydia: Most common bacterial STI, often asymptomatic and associated with infertility.
- Gonorrhoea: Increasing antibiotic resistance; treated with ceftriaxone and test of cure.
- Syphilis: Multi-stage infection treated with benzathine penicillin.
- Genital Herpes: Managed with antiviral medication and suppressive therapy.
- Genital HPV: Most common STI globally; high-risk types cause cervical cancer.
- HIV: Regular testing recommended for women with recognised risk factors.
Complications of Untreated STIs
Pelvic inflammatory disease is an ascending infection of the upper reproductive tract, commonly caused by chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Symptoms include lower abdominal pain, cervical motion tenderness and adnexal tenderness.
- Requires broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy
- Can lead to tubal infertility
- Increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy
- May cause chronic pelvic pain
Recommended STI Testing
- Annual chlamydia and gonorrhoea testing for sexually active women under 25
- HIV, syphilis and hepatitis testing for women with multiple partners or other risk factors
- Routine screening when changing sexual partners
- Comprehensive STI screening at the first antenatal booking visit
Preventing Re-Infection
Successful management of bacterial and parasitic STIs requires confidential partner notification and simultaneous treatment. Appropriate counselling and clinician support help reduce reinfection and prevent ongoing transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have an STI with no symptoms?
Yes. The majority of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and trichomonas infections are asymptomatic in women. Regular screening, not symptom-based testing, is the only reliable method of detection.
Will I be judged if I ask for an STI test?
Never. STI testing is a routine component of sexual health care. Dr. Ruby Rashmi's practice provides a completely private and supportive environment for sexual health assessment.
Conclusion
STIs are common, treatable, and through screening and prevention, largely avoidable in their serious complications. Open, non-judgemental clinical conversations about sexual health are a fundamental component of women's healthcare.
Sources & References
This article draws on guidance current at the time of writing from the following bodies and publications:
WHO
2023 STI Global Progress ReportBASHH/RCOG
2023 GuidelinesACOG
2021 Guidelinesβ IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
This article is provided for general knowledge and reference purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. No medication, treatment, or change to your healthcare should be undertaken based on this content without first consulting a qualified doctor. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Consult Dr. Ruby Rashmi
Specialist Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Dubai
