The Association Between Female Genital Schistosomiasis and Other Infections of the Lower Genital Tract in Adolescent Girls and Young Women: A Cross-Sectional Study in South Africa

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

  • Jilna Dilip Shukla
  • Elisabeth Kleppa
  • Sigve Holmen
  • Patricia D. Ndhlovu
  • Andile Mtshali
  • Motshedisi Sebitloane
  • Vennervald, Birgitte J
  • Svein Gunnar Gundersen
  • Myra Taylor
  • Eyrun Floerecke Kjetland

Objectives/Purposes of the Study This study aimed to explore the relationship between female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), sexually transmitted infections, bacterial vaginosis, and yeast among young women living in Schistosoma haematobium-endemic areas. Methods In a cross-sectional study of young women, sexually active, aged 16 to 22 years in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, in 32 randomly selected rural schools in schistosomiasis-endemic areas, the authors performed gynecological and laboratory investigations, diagnosed FGS and other infections, and did face-to-face interviews. Results Female genital schistosomiasis was the second most prevalent current genital infection (23%), significantly more common in those who had urinary schistosomiasis (35%), compared with those without (19%, p <.001). In the FGS-positive group, 35% had human papillomavirus compared with 24% in the FGS-negative group (p =.010). In the FGS-positive group, 37% were seropositive for herpes simplex virus infection, compared with 30% in the FGS-negative group (p =.079). There were significantly fewer chlamydia infections among women with FGS (20%, p =.018) compared with those who did not have FGS (28%). Conclusions Female genital schistosomiasis was the second most common genital infection after herpes simplex virus. Human papillomavirus infection was significantly associated with FGS, but Chlamydia was negatively associated with FGS. Women with FGS may have had more frequent contact with the health system for genital discharge. The results show the importance of the inclusion of FGS in the national management protocols for genital infections in areas endemic for S. haematobium and highlight a more comprehensive approach to diagnosis and genital disease management.

Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of Lower Genital Tract Disease
Volume27
Issue number3
Pages (from-to)291-296
Number of pages6
ISSN1089-2591
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2023

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

    Research areas

  • Africa, Chlamydia trachomatis, female, female genital schistosomiasis, human papillomavirus, parasitic infection

ID: 362700124