Lower Genital Tract Infections and HIV in Women

Lower genital tract infections and HIV are major causes of morbidity and mortality among women; thier impact on the US economy amounts to several billion dollars each year. Most lower genital tract infections--and their adverse sequelae, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, chronic pelvic pain, and increased susceptibility to HIV--are caused by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). This article reviews recent epidemiologic information relevant to some of the STDs that more commonly affect women, and recent advances in molecular biology, diagnostics, and treatments. Effective, consistent, and proper use of barrier contraception should be encouraged, to decrease the transmission of these infections.