Sexually transmitted infections in a female population in rural north-east Brazil: prevalence, morbidity and risk factors.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of major sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and gynaecological morbidity in women of reproductive age living in rural communities in north-east Brazil and to assess risk factors associated with the presence of STIs.

Methods: A total of 341 women (84%) were examined gynaecologically and colposcopically. The gynaecological history was taken by means of a standardized, pre-tested questionnaire.