This article was reviewed by Ifeoma Nneka Emelurumonye, a Medical Doctor specialized in Public Health. Dr. Ifeoma is the co-founder of The Feminist Health blog, a space with the aim of increasing awareness on women’s health and she is working as a Public Health Specialist in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Domestic Violence in the U.K.
Sexual and reproductive health is an integral part of the overall health and well-being of women. It encompasses a range of factors, including the prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), effective birth control methods, and maintaining sexual wellness. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore each of these factors in detail to help women understand and take charge of their sexual and reproductive health.
STIs are infections that are transmitted predominantly through unprotected sex. STIs can also be transmitted through pregnancy, breastfeeding and through infected blood or blood products. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and if left untreated, they may have serious health consequences.
Sexually active women should practice safe sex, which includes using condoms and getting tested regularly (at least once in a year). In addition, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of STIs and seek prompt medical attention if any are present.
Some Common STIs Include:
1. Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a common STD that may affect both men and women. It is a bacterial infection that can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), permanent damage to a woman’s reproductive system or potentially fatal ectopic pregnancies if left untreated. Chlamydia can be contracted by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. Chlamydia often has no symptoms, in fact, it is estimated that 40-96% of people with chlamydia have no symptoms but it can cause severe health problems even without symptoms. Where present, symptoms may include a burning sensation during urination, pain during sex and abnormal discharge. Chlamydia can usually be effectively treated with antibiotics, and more than 95% of people will be cured if they take their antibiotics correctly. It also important to test again after three months to check for reinfection.
2. Gonorrhoea:
Gonorrhoea, also called the clap, is another common sexually transmitted disease caused by a bacterial infection which infects the mucous membranes of the reproductive tract, including the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes in women, and the urethra in women and men. Most women with gonorrhoea are asymptomatic, and when a woman has symptoms, they can be so mild and nonspecific that they may be mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection. If left untreated, gonorrhoea can spread into the uterus or fallopian tubes and cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and it can also infect the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, eyes, and rectum. Symptoms may include painful urination and discharge. For testing and treatment, see a healthcare professional. People infected with gonorrhoea are often infected with chlamydia (co-infection ranging from 46-54% in young people as with other STIs). That is why chlamydia and gonorrhoea testing are often combined and tests for other STIs and HIV should be offered.
3. Human papillomavirus (HPV):
HPV is the most common infection in the reproductive tract. It is a viral infection that, in 9 out of 10 cases, will go away on its own within two years without health problems thanks to our immune system. However, when HPV does not go away, it can cause problems like genital warts and cervical cancer. There is a safe and effective vaccine that prevents HPV, normally offered to between the ages of 9 to 14; see a healthcare professional to get it.
4. Herpes:
Herpes results from a viral infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Most people with herpes have no symptoms or only mild symptoms. However, it can cause painful, recurring blisters or ulcers around the mouth or genitals, and new infections may cause fever, body aches and swollen lymph nodes. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 67% of people under age 50 globally have an HSV-1 infection (which causes oral herpes and usually affects the mouth and surrounding skin but can also affect the genital region), and 13% under age 50 have an HSV-2 infection (which typically causes genital herpes, and is usually sexually transmitted). While medicine can moderate symptoms and outbreaks, there is no cure. The virus typically lies dormant inside nerve cells and alternates between being inactive and active and some triggers such as illness or fever, menstrual cycles, emotional stress and sun exposure may make the virus active again.
5. HIV:
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a viral infection that attacks the body’s immune system, and if it is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). Though there is no cure, with proper medical care, it is controllable and allows people to have a life expectancy as people without the infection. Most people have flu-like symptoms within 2 to 4 weeks after infection, and symptoms may last for a few days or several weeks. The only way to know your status for sure is by testing.
According to the World Health Organisation, more than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired every day worldwide, the majority of which are asymptomatic. Periodic sexual health checks are necessary to know the state of your sexual health and for general wellness, even if you are in a stable relationship. The stigma associated with STIs makes some people reluctant to get tested, and there is a need for concerted efforts towards destigmatising STIs and STI testing. Beyond practising safe sex, awareness is key.
It is essential to practice safe sex to reduce the risk of STIs and this includes using condoms, getting tested regularly.
Contraception or birth control refers to methods of family planning and pregnancy prevention. Some popular contraceptive methods are oral contraceptive pills, implants, condoms, IUDs and injectables. These methods are highly effective for pregnancy protection, with some guaranteeing as much as 99% effectiveness if used correctly.
Some Contraceptive Methods Include:
1. Oral contraceptive pills:
This method of contraception comes in pill form and is taken orally. The pills contain hormones that prevent pregnancy, and they are 99% effective at pregnancy prevention when taken consistently every day. The pill contains hormones that regulate menstruation (oestrogen and progesterone), improve acne, treat endometriosis, and lower the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers.
2. Implants:
The contraceptive implant is a long-term, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) birth control method. It is a small flexible plastic rod placed under the skin of your upper arm by a medical professional. The implant releases a low, steady dose of the hormone progestin that prevents pregnancy by pausing ovulation.
3. Condoms:
Condoms, also referred to as the barrier method, are thin, fitted tubes worn over the penis during sex for men or inserted into the vagina before sex for women. They create a barrier that keeps semen and other body fluids out of the mouth, vagina, or rectum. They’re cheap and easily accessible, and they prevent pregnancy as well as STIs. Male condoms are about 98% effective at preventing pregnancy when used properly.
4. Intrauterine devices (IUDs):
This form of birth control is a small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus. It is a long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) and, once inserted, remains effective for 3-10 years, depending on the brand. LARCs like implants and IUDs are the most effective form of birth control that do not require surgery, but requires well trained medical personnel.
5. Injectables:
The contraceptive injection releases the hormone progestin into your bloodstream to prevent pregnancy. It suppresses ovulation, preventing your ovaries from releasing an egg and thickens cervical mucus to keep sperm from reaching the egg.
With all methods of hormonal contraception, there is a risk of unpleasant side effects, so it is important to seek professional help from healthcare personnel in order to make informed decisions about what methods suit you best. Some of these side effects include; weight fluctuations, mood changes, changes in appetite, bloating and nausea.
While many methods of birth control help prevent pregnancy, they do not protect against STIs and additional precautions like wearing condoms and getting tested after sexual encounters with new partners are necessary.
Due to medical advancements, many STIs are curable, others manageable, and some are now preventable. Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a primary cause of cervical cancer, is preventable by vaccine, and HIV by Pre-exposure prophylaxis (or PrEP) which reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%.
In Lagos, here are some organisations and healthcare providers that may provide help for your sexual health needs:
1. The Centre for Population Health Initiatives (CPHI) is a nonprofit, non-governmental organisation that offers a wide range of specialised client-centred reproductive health and rights services to marginalised and vulnerable communities — and all their services come at no cost.
2. Marie Stopes Nigeria provides sex and reproductive health services like miscarriage and post-abortion care, STI screening and treatment, cervical cancer screenings, contraception and family planning, maternity services and general health services at a relatively affordable rate.
3. Stand to End Rape (STER) is a youth-led non-profit organisation in Lagos that prioritises advocating against sexual violence, providing prevention mechanisms, and supporting survivors with psychosocial services. They seek the advancement of gender equality, and they believe that through advocacy, prevention & support, we can end sexual & gender-based violence.
4. Women at Risk International Foundation, (WARIF) is a non-profit organisation concerned with the prevalence of sexual assault, rape and human trafficking of young girls and women across Nigeria and Africa.
5. Mirabel Centre is managed by Partnership for Justice, a non-profit organisation driven by a shared commitment to equality, justice and globalisation of human rights. The Mirabel Centre is Nigeria’s first Sexual Assault Referral Centre, with a mandate to provide holistic medical and psychosocial support to survivors of rape and sexual violence.
