[Clinical presentation of monkeypox in women]

Until recently the majority of monkeypox cases presented at the Centre of Sexual Health have been males who have sex with males. Women can however, possibly through sexual contact with bisexual individuals, also contract the disease.

A 57-year-old female, the partner of a bisexual man tested positive for monkeypox, presented at the Centre of Sexual Health. Physical examination revealed the presence of lesions typical for monkeypox at the introitus of the vagina. Her monkeypox PCR was positive. The patient had complaints for 8 days starting with itchiness followed by a painful sensation that subsided after 3 days.

When assessing a woman with mild complaints such as itching or burning sensation, monkeypox should be considered. Physical (gynaecological) examination can provide valuable insights leading to the diagnosis and prevention of (spreading of) monkeypox cases.