Sexually transmitted diseases: global importance.

The worldwide incidence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) continues to increase and represents a major public health problem especially in the developing world causing infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Prevention of the spread of STDs, along with early detection and appropriate therapy has the potential to minimize the reproductive tract damage of these infections and simultaneously improve the health of women in all areas of the world.