Now, more than ever, it’s time to address the neglect of female genital schistosomiasis

This review addresses the continued neglect of female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), a sexual and reproductive health condition predominantly affecting women and girls in sub Saharan Africa. Caused by Schistosoma haematobium, FGS results from parasite eggs trapped in the genital tract and is frequently misdiagnosed, stigmatised and inadequately treated, despite its association with adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes and increased susceptibility to HIV and HPV.

The paper summarises current developments in FGS burden, diagnostics, prevention, service integration and policy, and identifies critical threats to progress. It highlights the need for nationally coordinated, multisectoral efforts to embed FGS prevention, diagnosis and management within broader health systems, particularly sexual and reproductive health services.

The review concludes that addressing FGS requires coordinated action across all health system building blocks to improve outcomes for affected women and girls.