Female Genital Schistosomiasis & Sexually Transmitted Infection Overlap

A slide deck for healthcare professionals with an overview of the overlap between the Female Genital Schistosomiasis & Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa.

STI symptoms can be caused by a parasite that is transmitted in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the Middle East. 90% of people who need schistosomiasis (bilharzia) treatment live in Africa.

• Schistosomiasis is transmitted through contact with contaminated fresh water (not sex!).
• Untreated schistosomiasis among women turns into female genital schistosomiasis (FGS).
• FGS is associated with increased risk for HIV and HPV, infertility, painful sexual intercourse and contact bleeding.
• If you have a woman coming from an endemic area with STI symptoms you should consider female genital schisto (FGS) in your differential diagnosis
• Classic lesions can be found in the WHO FGS Atlas.
• Lesions can be found in routine screening for cervical cancer and can confuse diagnosis but note lesions do not enhance.
• Treatment is simple with a single dose of praziquantel 40 mg/kg.