Women With Menstrual Disorders More Likely to Be Diagnosed With STIs, Study Suggests
A study published in *PLOS One* found that women with menstrual disorders were more likely to be diagnosed with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) compared to women without such conditions, according to data analysis of more than 3.4 million women in Japan in 2023. The research, which examined insurance claims for gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and genital herpes, revealed that 3.5% of women with menstrual disorders were diagnosed with chlamydia—compared to 0.7% of those without the condition.
What Did the Study Find?
The study analyzed healthcare data from more than 3.4 million women who visited a doctor in 2023. Of these, 7.5% (257,897 individuals) had a menstrual-related disorder, such as endometriosis or dysmenorrhea. Women with menstrual disorders were four to five times more likely to be diagnosed with trichomoniasis, genital herpes, and other STIs than those without such conditions. For example, gonorrhea was diagnosed in 0.9% of women with menstrual disorders versus 0.2% of those without.
Why the Link Between Menstrual Disorders and STIs?
Experts caution that the study does not prove a causal relationship between menstrual disorders and STI risk. Instead, the association may stem from increased healthcare engagement. “It means that people who have concerns with their menses have a higher likelihood of going to the doctor,” said Dr. Christine Greves, an ob-gyn at the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies in Orlando, Florida.
Dr. Adi Davidov, associate chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwell’s Staten Island University Hospital, echoed this sentiment. “The fact that these women are tested more frequently will cause their [STI] rate to be higher,” he said. He noted that there also tends to be an overlap with symptoms of STIs and menstrual disorders, prompting more comprehensive screenings.
What Should Women Know?
Healthcare providers emphasize that all sexually active individuals should be regularly screened for STIs. Dr. Greves highlighted that conditions like intrauterine devices (IUDs) require STI testing before insertion to reduce risks of pelvic inflammatory disease. “Don’t neglect testing or seeing a healthcare provider just because you don’t have a menstrual disorder,” she advised.
Key Takeaways
- Women with menstrual disorders were four to five times more likely to be diagnosed with trichomoniasis, genital herpes, and other STIs in a Japanese study.
- The link likely reflects increased healthcare visits and testing, not higher infection rates.
- Regular STI screening is recommended for all sexually active individuals, regardless of menstrual health.
Study: Association Between Menstrual Disorders and STI Diagnoses
Mayo Clinic: Endometriosis Symptoms and Causes
CDC: STI Screening Guidelines