Introduction to Female Genital Schistosomiasis (Julie Jacobson)

Learn about one of the most neglected sexual and reproductive health issues in sub-Saharan Africa

Learn more: https://www.learning.foundation/fgs

This introduction by Dr Julie Jacobson includes a WHO perspective on the challenge by Dr Pamela Sabina and clinical experience from Dr Eyrun Floerecke Kjetland.

Schistosomiasis, is a waterborne neglected tropical disease of poverty with over 450 million people living at-risk. The parasite infects both the urinary and genital track in infected individuals. The urinary signs and symptoms are most prominently recognized, with bloody urine often being the first sign of infection and most often what is described in medical training.

What is frequently not recognized is that this parasite also affects the genital track. Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), remains underreported, under- and misdiagnosed and largely untreated.

FGS has been described as the one of the most neglected sexual and reproductive health issues in sub-Saharan Africa with an estimated 56 million women and girls infected.