When Should You Question Infidelity in the Face of a Gynecological Infection?

In gynecology, we are often faced with patients who wonder about their partner’s fidelity in connection with infections or genital symptoms. Some dare to ask directly, while others let their doubts show without saying anything. There are also women who are convinced that any problem in the genital area is the partner’s “fault,” and those who are confident in their partner’s fidelity.

The central question, therefore, is: when can the partner be responsible, and when can a patient have legitimate doubts? This text aims to clarify these situations by distinguishing infections truly related to sexual contact from conditions that have nothing to do with the partner’s fidelity.

Situations where it is legitimate to ask questions

Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are only transmitted through sexual contact:

• Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, HIV, Trichomonas, Genital herpes

  If you are in a stable relationship and one of these STIs suddenly appears, it is reasonable to question the origin of the infection.

• Repeated recurrence of STIs despite treatment

  If treatment was properly followed and the infection returns, it can be helpful to have an open discussion with your partner and consult together.

*Note about herpes:

Genital herpes can reappear long after the initial infection (reactivation), even without a new sexual contact. Therefore, a recurrent episode of herpes does not automatically mean that the partner has been unfaithful.

Situations where doubt is not justified

Many gynecological infections have nothing to do with partner fidelity:

• Vaginal yeast infections (Candida) → often linked to hormonal imbalance, stress, or antibiotics.

• Bacterial vaginosis → imbalance of the vaginal flora, not a sexually transmitted infection.

• Urinary tract infections (cystitis) → bladder infection, unrelated to infidelity.

• HPV infections → the virus can remain latent for years; its detection does not mean a partner has been recently unfaithful.

  
  

Practical advice

• Do not look for a “culprit”: the important thing is screening, treatment, and prevention.

• In case of doubt, get the appropriate tests for both partners and discuss openly.

• Maintain proper intimate hygiene and consult your healthcare provider as soon as unusual symptoms appear.

  
  

Conclusion

The majority of gynecological infections have no link to partner fidelity. Questions about infidelity should only arise with certain specific STIs and after a medical discussion. The essential goal is to protect your intimate health and that of your couple.

With all my attention to your intimate health and that of your couple,

Dr. Sandra Yene Amougui