The Open Infectious Diseases Journal
2009, 3 : 128-134Published online 2009 December 24. DOI: 10.2174/1874279301004010128
Publisher ID: TOIDJ-3-128
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Sexually Transmitted Infections and Associated Conditions Among Women Who Have Sex with Women
Department of Medicine/Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Center for AIDS and
STD, Harborview Medical Center/University of Washington, Box 359931, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104, USA.
* Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Medicine/Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Center for AIDS and STD, Harborview Medical Center/University of Washington, Box 359931, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104, USA.Tel: 206-744-8311/3679; Fax: 206-744-3693; E-mails: dsingh@u.washington.edu, jmm2@u.washington.edu
* Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Medicine/Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Center for AIDS and STD, Harborview Medical Center/University of Washington, Box 359931, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104, USA.Tel: 206-744-8311/3679; Fax: 206-744-3693; E-mails: dsingh@u.washington.edu, jmm2@u.washington.edu
ABSTRACT
Available data support that women who have sex with women (WSW) are at risk for a variety of sexually transmitted infections (STI) and vaginitis. Risk of STI transmission in this group depends on the specific STI under consideration and the sexual practices involved. Data demonstrates that WSW receive less standard gynecologic screening than their heterosexual counterparts. This may be due, in part, to provider and patient assessment of risk. Based on available evidence, there is a need to increase provider education on the sexual health of WSW. Moreover, enhancement of STI screening guidelines that specifically mention WSW, particularly for cervical cancer and infections caused by C. trachomatis, are essential.