The common presence of female reproductive tract infections

Women are often afflicted by reproductive tract infections (RTIs), ailments that occur in the upper or lower reproductive tract. These are divided into three general categories - endogenous infections, iatrogenic infections and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). All are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or other microbiological organisms, according to EmpowHER.

The news source reports that RTIs are fairly common, particularly those that affect the lower reproductive tract. This is due to the natural presence of bacteria and yeast in the vagina, which can be adversely affected by antibiotics, problems affecting the immune system, sexual activity and pregnancy, among other factors.

STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, syphilis, AIDS and more are caused by bacteria, viruses or microbiological parasites spread through unprotected sexual activity.

The most common RTIs are endogenous infections such as bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis. This type of RTI is also the most easily cured affliction of its kind. Iatrogenic infections are caused by unsanitary surgical instruments used in medical procedures like childbirth and abortion, as well as menstrual cycle regulation and the insertion of inter-uterine devices (IUDs).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the majority of RTIs are preventable and many are treatable. Untreated RTIs, including numerous STDs, can lead to infertility in men and women and cause cervical cancer, ectopic pregnancy and uterine infections in women.