Sexually transmitted diseases and reproductive health

Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) are a major health problem, particularly for women in developing countries. Serious sequelae include ascending infections leading to chronic discomfort, ectopic pregnancy and infertility, cervical cancer, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Primary prevention involves sexual behavior modifications and condom use, and secondary prevention targets early and appropriate management of STD and reproductive tract infections (RTI). There is an urgent need for comprehensive preventive and curative reproductive health services, as well as for inexpensive, simple, rapid, and convenient STD diagnostics and treatment regimens. Female controlled barrier methods are a priority in the field of applied research. In additions, women's voices have to be heard in health and development programs.