Worldwide, they are the most common cause of RTIs among women. These infections typically can be readily treated. If they are not treated, they can cause problems ranging from localized irritation to more serious consequences, such as pelvic inflammatory disease. Endogenous infections are very widespread and cause women varying degrees of discomfort and pain. Many women believe that such infections are normal and part of the female experience and, consequently, do not seek care due to shame or lack of information.
Numerous misconceptions surround endogenous infections.
For example, many women believe, or are mistakenly told by medical practitioners, that their symptoms result from much more serious sexually transmitted infections. This can occur if the presence of inflammation or discharge caused by endogenous infections is confused with discharge produced by STIs such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. Indeed, many studies show that even experienced clinicians cannot reliably distinguish between vaginal discharge caused by sexually transmitted or endogenous infections. Aggressive syndromic management of vaginal discharge may result in considerable over-use of antibiotics, especially if women are routinely treated for suspected cervical infection. Diagnosis of endogenous infections is possible with relatively simple laboratory procedures.