What can happen if STIs are left untreated?

In recent years, the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among women has surged, becoming a significant public health concern. This trend is alarming as it underscores a critical need for enhanced awareness, prevention, and treatment strategies. Here to shed more light on this topic is esteemed consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Miss Julie Bowring.

What are the main factors that contribute to the rise in STIs in women?

Several factors contribute to the rise in STIs among women. Firstly, there is an increasing trend of risky sexual behaviours, such as having multiple partners and inconsistent condom use. These behaviours elevate the risk of contracting STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Additionally, social and cultural stigmas surrounding sexual health often prevent women from seeking timely medical advice and treatment, further exacerbating the spread of infections.

A lack of comprehensive sexual education plays a pivotal role in this upward trend. Many educational systems fail to provide detailed information about safe sexual practices, consent, and the importance of regular STI screenings. This knowledge gap leaves many women unaware of the risks and the necessary precautions to protect themselves.

Furthermore, disparities in healthcare access significantly impact women's sexual health. Women from marginalised communities often face barriers such as limited access to affordable healthcare, lack of insurance, and insufficient healthcare facilities. These challenges hinder regular health check-ups and timely treatments, increasing the likelihood of undiagnosed and untreated STIs.

What can happen if STIs are left untreated?

The implications of untreated STIs in women are severe, including chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and an increased risk of acquiring HIV. Pregnant women with untreated STIs also risk transmitting infections to their newborns, potentially leading to severe health complications.

Addressing this growing issue requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing sexual education to include comprehensive, evidence-based information on STI prevention and management is crucial. Efforts should also focus on destigmatizing sexual health issues, encouraging open conversations, and promoting regular screenings.

Improving healthcare access is equally important. Policies aimed at providing affordable healthcare services, especially for marginalized populations, can significantly reduce STI rates. Public health campaigns tailored to educate and inform women about the importance of safe sexual practices and regular medical check-ups can also play a pivotal role.

To book a consultation with Miss Julie Bowring, just visit her Top Doctors profile today.