Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are a major public health problem, especially in
developing countries. The complications of untreated STIs in the female genital tract and
their role in adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcomes have been well documented.
However, most infections are asymptomatic and screening, especially for women in the
reproductive age group is recommended. The prevalence of STIs in Kenya among women in
the general population has not been extensively studied and there is a lack of guidelines for
screening of nonpregnant women. Knowledge of the prevalence of curable STIs among this
population can provide a basis for integrating STI screening in family planning clinics.