Inflammations in the female urogenital system, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), bacterial vaginosis (BV), and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are common and can cause various long-term effects on a woman’s health.

Some of these long-term effects include:

• Infertility: PID, a complication of certain STIs, can cause scarring and damage to the fallopian tubes, leading to infertility.
• Chronic pelvic pain: Inflammation in the reproductive organs can cause chronic pain in the pelvis that can be difficult to manage and negatively impact a woman’s quality of life.
• Increased risk of preterm birth: Women with BV or other infections during pregnancy have a higher risk of delivering prematurely.
• Increased risk of HIV transmission: STIs can increase the risk of HIV transmission if left untreated.

It’s essential to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of urogenital inflammations, such as pain or discomfort during sex, abnormal vaginal discharge, burning or pain while urinating, or lower abdominal pain. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term complications and improve your overall health and well-being. Regular preventive checkups with a gynecologist or healthcare provider can also help detect potential issues early on and provide advice on ways to prevent urogenital inflammations and other health concerns.

Dr Irina Mzavanatze – Obstetrics/Gynecologist