Sexually transmitted infections and contraceptives: selective issues.

It is important to examine the successful completed research and use it to move forward in practice to halt the almost 50% unintended pregnancy rate in the United States and the continued worldwide epidemic of HIV and other STIs. A significant development has been the evidence supporting the IUD as a valuable contraceptive option available to many women, including women who are HIV infected, with no increased risks of infertility or PID. Evidence exists that OCPs may increase chlamydial infection acquisition and cervicitis, but it is unlikely that OCP use is associated with PID. The lack of female-controlled dual method protection remains a void, but with the introduction of products such as FemCap and Reality condom and the continuing progress of microbicides and spermicides, the future is brighter. Clearly research into the interactions of STIs and contraceptives must continue to discern how best to approach a resolution to these public health concerns that affect women and the global population.