STIs are infections typically transmitted through sexual contact. Common pathogens include bacteria, viruses, and parasites, and their effects on the human body differ depending on the type of infection. Some of the most common STIs include:
While STIs primarily disrupt reproductive and sexual health, their effects can spread to pelvic organs and, in some cases, cause long-term complications that increase cancer risks.
Ovarian cancer is one of the most serious gynecological cancers, but its exact causes remain partially understood. Research has started to uncover how chronic infections, including STIs, might contribute to the development of this disease.
STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) when left untreated. PID is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Chronic inflammation caused by PID may create an environment conducive to cellular changes, some of which could lead to ovarian cancer over time.
For instance, long-term inflammation can damage the DNA in ovarian tissue, causing mutations that drive cancer development. Chronic infections also alter normal immune responses, potentially impairing your body's ability to detect and destroy emerging cancer cells.
HPV, one of the most studied STIs in relation to cancer, is best recognized for its role in cervical cancer. However, certain strains of HPV have also been detected in ovarian tumors during studies, raising questions about its role in ovarian cancer development. While the connection requires further research, the evidence supports HPV’s involvement in genetic alterations that could lead to cancerous changes in cells.
Women who experience STIs might also face complications such as infertility or an increased likelihood of undergoing hormone treatments, both of which have been loosely linked to ovarian cancer. Additionally, behavioral risk factors such as inconsistent condom use or having multiple sexual partners could indirectly contribute to elevated cancer risks.
Yes, managing and preventing STIs can play a significant role in reducing risks associated with ovarian cancer. Here’s how:
Detecting STIs early is one of the most effective ways to prevent complications. Regular testing, particularly for sexually active individuals, helps identify infections even when no symptoms are present. The earlier an STI is detected, the easier it is to treat and prevent secondary effects like PID, which may contribute to cancer risk.
For bacterial STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea, completing the full course of prescribed antibiotics eliminates the infection and significantly reduces the risk of chronic inflammation. Skipping treatments or relying on incomplete regimens can result in persistent infections and ongoing damage to reproductive organs.
HPV vaccines are widely recommended and available for boys and girls starting as early as age 9. These vaccines protect against key HPV strains known to cause cancer, including less-studied connections to ovarian cancer. If you haven’t been vaccinated yet, talk to your healthcare provider about whether it’s an option for you.
Using barrier methods like condoms reduces exposure to STIs and their potential long-term effects. Openly discussing sexual health and past STI histories with partners allows for better prevention and informed decisions.
Annual gynecological exams provide an opportunity to screen for STIs and assess any underlying issues affecting reproductive health. By catching infections or changes early, healthcare providers can address risk factors before they escalate.
One of the barriers to reducing STI-related complications is the stigma surrounding these infections. Many individuals may delay seeking help for symptoms or avoid testing altogether because of fear, embarrassment, or misinformation. However, prioritizing sexual and reproductive health is essential—not just for your immediate well-being but also for your broader health outcomes. Healthcare professionals play an important role in normalizing conversations about STIs. Creating a stigma-free environment in clinics and health campaigns encourages more people to take charge of their health.
Ovarian cancer risk may be raised by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) and chlamydia trachomatis (CT). A woman's sexual health may be significantly impacted by ovarian cancer treatment; side effects such as exhaustion and pain often lead to complaints of vaginal dryness, dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), decreased desire, and decreased sexual activity. People are empowered to take charge of their health when they comprehend how STIs affect the risk of ovarian cancer. It is possible to safeguard not just your reproductive health but also lower the likelihood of more severe consequences by prioritising prevention, early detection, and treatment.
