Integrating FGS to Optimize Women and Girl’s Health in Africa

What is FGS?

Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS) affects millions of women and girls on the continent of Africa. It is a complication of chronic, untreated schistosomiasis in women and girls. Schistosomiasis is a common neglected tropical disease that is transmitted to people when they interact with fresh-waterways that are home to snails that carry schistosomes – the parasite causing the infection. FGS occurs when the parasite’s eggs migrate to and damage the urogenital tract. If left untreated, FGS can result in severe SRH complications such as ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage and infertility, an increased risk for HIV and HPV. FGS is unrecognised and often misdiagnosed as a sexually transmitted infection. FGS mainly affects women and girls living in vulnerable circumstances, often lacking access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene and primary health care services.

Rationale

The integration of FGS offers an opportunity to deliver comprehensive, quality healthcare services for women and girls. There are various models through which FGS can be integrated into the wider health care system to ensure accurate, timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent the long-term impact from this disease on sexual and reproductive health including infertility and an increased risk of acquiring HIV and HPV. Addressing FGS – a preventable, affordably treatable illness affecting millions of women and girls across Africa – ensures existing investments in health care for women and girls at risk are responsive to their needs.

Objectives

1. Showcase different models of FGS integration from East, West and Southern Africa
2. Promote an understanding of how FGS can be integrated into the wider health system, particularly sexual and reproductive health rights and services
3. Improve engagement and discussion amongst funders and implementers on existing and future opportunities for integration.