Treatment of sexually transmitted infections by obstetrician-gynecologist Irina Ivanovna Kulbach in the city of Dnipro

Patients present with complaints such as unpleasant discharge, itching and burning in the intimate area, discomfort during sexual intercourse, or recurring symptoms without visible improvement.

The doctor conducts a thorough clinical evaluation, reviews the medical history, and, if necessary, orders additional tests to accurately clarify the condition.

The patient receives a clear and understandable action plan, which includes recommendations for current measures, necessary examinations, and a scheme for monitoring the progress of the condition.

Special attention is given to differential diagnosis and dynamic observation, which helps to timely adjust treatment and prevent complications.

When to See a Doctor

It is important to consult an obstetrician-gynecologist for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) when you notice concerning symptoms or changes in your health. Sometimes, signs may be mild or recur after previous treatment. A consultation helps to identify the causes and choose the best course of action. You should make an appointment with an obstetrician-gynecologist if you experience any of the following with STIs:

• Persistent itching and burning in the genital area
• Unpleasant or unusual discharge with a foul odor
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Redness and swelling of the external genitalia
• Discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen
• Symptoms that recur or worsen over time
• Problems that interfere with normal sleep or daily activities
• No noticeable improvement after self-care measures or previously prescribed treatment
• Symptoms appearing for the first time and causing concern
• Worsening of symptoms following stress or lifestyle changes
• Unpleasant sensations after changing sexual partners
• Need for a second opinion regarding your current condition

If you notice one or more of these signs, a consultation will help clarify the causes and determine the next steps for managing your condition. It is important not to delay a visit to avoid possible complications and to receive appropriate care.

Emergency Conditions or When to See a Doctor Immediately

• Sudden severe pain in the lower abdomen
• Increasing burning and intense itching accompanied by swelling
• Vaginal bleeding not related to menstruation
• High fever combined with severe general malaise
• Sudden worsening of condition along with other symptoms

If you experience any of these symptoms, do not wait for a scheduled appointment; seek urgent medical assistance. Our clinic offers a home visit service for prompt assessment of your condition.

Causes and Risk Factors

Understanding the possible causes and risk factors will help better comprehend why sexually transmitted infections may develop and which aspects should be monitored. It is important to check and assess overall health status to select an appropriate management strategy.

Main Causes / Mechanisms (briefly)

• Infection through unprotected sexual contact
• Poor personal hygiene
• Presence of chronic inflammatory processes in the pelvic organs
• Reduced immunity, weakened defense mechanisms of the body
• Transmission of infection from an asymptomatic partner
• Lack of regular examinations and health monitoring

Risk Factors

• Frequent change of sexual partners
• Not using barrier contraceptive methods
• Immune system disorders
• Stress and fatigue that weaken the body
• Uncontrolled use of antibiotics and other medications
• Inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system
• Smoking and alcohol consumption
• Pregnancy, when the body is especially vulnerable

Reversible Causes That Should Be Excluded

• Unbalanced diet and vitamin deficiency
• Allergic reactions to intimate hygiene products
• Vaginal microflora disturbances, treatable with medical support
• Lack of regular check-ups and delayed treatment of gynecological diseases

Sexually transmitted infections are often associated with a combination of factors that require careful attention and evaluation by a specialist to accurately tailor management.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections aims to accurately determine the causes of symptoms and choose the optimal plan for examination and treatment. This approach helps avoid rushing and understand which steps are needed specifically for you.

Diagnostic Approach

• Taking a detailed medical history, including complaints and aspects of sexual life
• The doctor performs an examination, assessing the condition of the mucous membranes and skin of the genital area
• Basic laboratory tests are prescribed to identify possible infections
• Additional tests are ordered if indicated
• Analysis of results to determine a preliminary treatment plan and subsequent monitoring
• Discussion with the patient about the next stages of diagnosis and symptom control
• Individualized recommendations on prevention and hygiene

Typical Tests As Indicated

May include:

• Microscopy of secretions and bacteriological culture
• Blood tests for antibodies or antigens of certain infections
• PCR diagnostics to detect pathogen DNA
• Ultrasound of pelvic organs if complications are suspected
• Additional tests depending on the clinical situation

What to Bring to the Appointment

• Results of previous gynecological exams and tests
• List of medications and supplements currently taken
• Notes on symptoms or changes observed
• Documents related to other comorbid conditions
• Questions you wish to discuss with the doctor

Diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections requires a comprehensive and step-by-step approach to provide the safest and most effective management of the condition.

Treatment

Treatment of sexually transmitted infections aims to reduce symptoms and prevent complications. The therapy plan is always tailored individually, taking into account the specifics of the condition and examination results.

Therapy Goals

• Reduce the severity of unpleasant symptoms and discomfort
• Address the underlying cause of the disease based on the physician’s assessment
• Restore normal functioning and quality of life
• Prevent recurrent exacerbations and complications

Main Treatment Approaches

• May include medication therapy as indicated to suppress the infection
• Use of non-drug procedures to support the mucous membranes and improve well-being
• Recommendations on personal hygiene and lifestyle changes if necessary
• Individual assessment of concomitant factors and correction of influencing conditions
• Possible interventions based on indications, considering the clinical picture

Physician’s Role

• Selects and adjusts therapy according to the current condition and any changes
• Takes into account comorbidities and the patient’s individual characteristics
• Monitors the appearance and severity of side effects from treatment
• Explains criteria for effectiveness and expected timelines for improvement
• Coordinates actions with other specialists if needed

What to Expect: Planning and Monitoring

• Condition monitoring and efficacy assessment are performed individually, depending on the situation
• If there is no improvement, the therapy plan may be adjusted
• Regular visits help timely detection of changes and treatment adjustments
• The doctor will advise when a follow-up examination and additional tests are necessary

Detailed information about treatment options can be obtained during a consultation with Dr. Irina Ivanovna Kulbach.

Prevention

Prevention of sexually transmitted infections helps reduce the risk of infection and recurrent complications. A prevention plan is tailored individually, taking into account the specific characteristics of each patient.

Main Primary Prevention Measures

• Use of barrier protection methods during sexual contact
• Maintaining personal hygiene, especially in the intimate area
• Limiting the number of sexual partners and paying close attention to their health
• Timely treatment and control of chronic inflammatory processes
• Maintaining overall health and immunity through a healthy lifestyle

Screening and Secondary Prevention / Regular Monitoring

• Regular gynecological examinations and assessments as indicated
• Screening for sexually transmitted infections when changing sexual partners or if symptoms appear
• Monitoring of concomitant diseases and adjustment of treatment as recommended by a doctor

Practical Tips

• Discuss vaccination options with your doctor if applicable
• Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking to help support immunity
• Keep a symptom diary to monitor your condition and respond promptly to changes
• Consult a doctor promptly if new or recurring symptoms arise
• Follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding prescribed therapy and preventive measures

Prevention of sexually transmitted infections is an important step for maintaining health, requiring regular monitoring and consultations with a healthcare professional.

Important to Know

When treating sexually transmitted infections, it is important not only to relieve the symptoms but also to understand the causes and factors that contribute to their development. Early assessment of the condition helps to choose the right approach and reduce the risk of complications. Often, ongoing monitoring with adjustment of the treatment plan based on the results is required. The course of the infection can be influenced by the overall state of the body, stress levels, quality of sleep, and the presence of other illnesses. Self-treatment may mask the true picture and delay necessary examination and care.

• Identifying causes and provoking factors is more important than simply eliminating symptoms
• Early consultation helps reduce the risk of progression and complications
• Dynamic monitoring allows timely adjustment of treatment
• Overall health and lifestyle affect the course of the infection
• Self-treatment can complicate diagnosis and cause side effects
• Support from an experienced doctor ensures consistent and safe treatment

More detailed information about the diagnosis and therapy of sexually transmitted infections can be found on our comprehensive A–Z page. In case of any doubts or recurring symptoms, it is better to seek professional help to ensure condition control and choose the optimal plan.

Self-care Before the Appointment: What You Can and Cannot Do

Before your appointment with Dr. Irina Ivanovna Kulbach, you can take certain steps to ease your condition and gather important information. If your symptoms worsen or new concerning signs appear, seek medical help immediately.

What You Can Do Before the Appointment

• Note when the symptoms first appeared and what makes them better or worse
• Keep a diary of changes: timing, intensity, possible triggers
• Bring a list of medications you are taking, including dosages
• Maintain moderate physical activity and rest if you experience discomfort
• Measure your body temperature and other indicators if you know how, and record the results
• Drink enough water to avoid dehydration if there is a risk
• Practice intimate hygiene using your usual products without harsh ingredients
• Avoid using new creams or products without consulting your doctor

What You Should Not Do Before the Appointment

• Do not start taking new medications or combine them on your own
• Do not change or stop treating chronic conditions without your doctor’s approval
• Do not use folk remedies or unverified treatments, as they may distort the clinical picture
• Do not use harsh cleaning products or douches without specialist recommendations
• Do not postpone your visit if symptoms worsen or new concerning signs appear
• Do not try to self-diagnose based on information found on the internet
• Do not ignore recurring or persistent symptoms that require examination
• Do not forget the importance of providing accurate and complete information to your doctor during the appointment

If urgent symptoms arise or your condition deteriorates rapidly, be sure to contact Dr. Irina Ivanovna Kulbach promptly for timely assistance.

How I Can Help as a Doctor with Sexually Transmitted Infections

During a consultation regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs), I will help you understand the causes of your condition and assess the severity of your symptoms. Together, we will determine the optimal plan for examination and treatment, taking into account your individual characteristics and any comorbidities. It is important to focus on dynamic monitoring and timely adjustment of the treatment plan. In a consultation on STIs, I can assist you with the following:

• Review symptoms and medical history to identify possible causes
• Assess the severity of the condition and potential risks of complications
• Analyze current medications and their tolerability
• Develop a step-by-step plan for examination, treatment, and monitoring progress
• Consider comorbidities and concomitant medications to ensure treatment safety
• Provide recommendations on lifestyle and regimen tailored to your case
• Discuss monitoring criteria and scheduling follow-up visits for observation
• Perform initial diagnostics with a differential approach to identify causes
• Adjust treatment if effects are insufficient or if side effects occur

Throughout the consultation, we will thoroughly review your situation to ensure the chosen therapy is as effective and safe as possible. If necessary, ongoing monitoring and prevention of possible exacerbations will be provided. This comprehensive approach helps achieve stable control over your condition, taking all aspects of your health into account.

What questions can you ask a doctor about sexually transmitted infections

During a consultation about sexually transmitted infections, you can discuss the following issues with Irina Ivanovna Kulbach:

• Unusual discharge and unpleasant odor from the intimate area
• Itching, burning, or pain during sexual intercourse
• Discomfort and tenderness in the lower abdomen
• Recurring or worsening symptoms that interfere with daily life
• Lack of effect from previous treatment or the need for a second opinion
• Questions about the impact of the infection on other diseases and overall health
• Selection of examination and diagnostic methods tailored individually
• Discussion of treatment options and follow-up in your specific situation

In case of sudden severe pain, bleeding, or rapid deterioration of condition, emergency care is required — do not wait for a routine appointment.

Questions you can discuss during the consultation

• What is happening to me and what could it be?
• Why have the symptoms appeared right now?
• How can I understand if this is related to a sexually transmitted infection?
• What examinations do I need in my case?
• Which tests are mandatory and which can be omitted?
• How should I prepare for the consultation and examinations?
• What treatment options are available for me?
• Is a full cure possible or is this a chronic condition?
• Why is the prescribed treatment not effective?
• Can I manage without medications or procedures?
• How long does treatment usually last and when should I come for follow-up?
• What signs indicate that the condition is worsening or flaring up?

If you have concerning symptoms, persistent complaints, or deterioration, consulting a doctor will help identify the causes and develop an effective plan. For urgent conditions, timely medical assistance is essential beyond scheduled visits.

How the Consultation Proceeds

A consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist for suspected sexually transmitted infections involves discussing complaints, assessing the current condition, and formulating a plan for further action. The scope of necessary examinations is determined individually, based on indications and the specific situation. The doctor does not make a final diagnosis during a single appointment but conducts a preliminary assessment to decide on the next steps.

1. Clarifying complaints and the purpose of the visit: identifying what troubles the patient, when symptoms appeared, how they affect daily life, and what outcome the patient hopes to achieve.
2. Collecting medical history and risk factors related to sexually transmitted infections: lifestyle, past illnesses, presence of concomitant conditions.
3. Discussing previous examinations and treatment courses, if any; patients are advised to bring test results and a list of current medications.
4. Examination and performance of specialized tests as indicated, including visual assessment of mucous membranes and possible sampling for laboratory analysis.
5. Preliminary discussion of the situation, indicating possible causes and what needs to be ruled out, without establishing a diagnosis during the visit.
6. Developing a diagnostic plan — which may include microscopy of discharge, blood tests, PCR testing, as well as ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs.
7. Creating an overall treatment and monitoring plan that takes into account the patient’s individual characteristics.
8. Discussing follow-up control: timing for repeat visits, criteria for improvement, or signs that warrant earlier consultation.

If this is the first consultation, particular attention is paid to clarifying symptoms and identifying possible causes. If previous treatment has been ineffective, a thorough review of the medical history is performed to adjust the strategy and select a new approach.

This procedure provides the patient with a clear understanding of the process and ensures that all stages are followed for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Preparation for the Appointment

To ensure that your appointment with the obstetrician-gynecologist regarding sexually transmitted infections is as effective as possible, it is important to prepare in advance. This will help speed up the diagnosis and development of a treatment plan.

• Bring a list of all current medications with their names and dosages, if you know them
• Bring results of previous examinations, tests, and imaging, if available
• Write down your main complaints: when they started, what worsens or alleviates the symptoms
• Do not stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your doctor
• If instructed, come on an empty stomach: do not eat or drink for 8–12 hours (unless advised otherwise, confirm when booking)
• Avoid using cosmetics and intimate hygiene products with new ingredients on the day of the appointment
• Prepare questions and concerns to discuss during the consultation
• Arrive a little early for registration and to complete necessary paperwork

If you have any doubts about preparation, it is best to clarify details when making the appointment. Do not change medications on your own — this may affect the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment.

About the Doctor

Irina Ivanovna Kulbach is a specialist obstetrician-gynecologist of the highest category with over 40 years of experience. She works with patients who have sexually transmitted infections, including cases of initial consultation, recurring symptoms, and situations where previous treatment has been ineffective.

The doctor pays special attention to differential diagnosis and dynamic monitoring to timely adjust the treatment plan. She also takes into account comorbidities and helps to choose appropriate measures to improve the condition.

During the consultation, you will receive a clear explanation of the situation and recommendations on the next steps.

Why Patients Choose Dr. Irina Ivanovna Kulbach

When dealing with sexually transmitted infections, thorough diagnostics and ongoing monitoring are crucial. Dr. Irina Ivanovna Kulbach pays close attention to analyzing the causes of symptoms and monitoring treatment outcomes, which helps to flexibly adjust therapy. Patients appreciate her systematic approach and consideration of possible comorbidities, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of treatment. You can come with tests you have already undergone — the doctor will carefully interpret the results and develop a plan based on all the information. This comprehensive approach helps reduce the risk of complications and timely implementation of preventive measures.

• Clear step-by-step action plan: what to do now, how to monitor, when to schedule a follow-up
• Tests only as indicated, without unnecessary procedures and expenses
• Consideration of comorbidities and current medications for safer therapy
• Monitoring of condition dynamics with prompt treatment adjustments if needed
• Review of previously prescribed treatments, tolerability, and side effects to select the optimal option
• Interpretation of existing test results in the context of the clinical picture
• Explanation of all treatment stages in simple language, without complex terms
• Focus on preventing exacerbations and complications in the long term

This approach and level of service ensure comfortable and safe management even in complex cases of sexually transmitted infections. The patient receives not only treatment but also support in managing their health, taking into account all the nuances of their condition.

Case Studies

Initial Consultation with Unusual Symptoms

A middle-aged female patient presented with complaints of itching and unpleasant discharge that had recently appeared and persisted. It was important to rule out the influence of concomitant diseases and determine the exact cause of the changes. The physician conducted a thorough examination, performed necessary tests, and carried out differential diagnostics. According to the results, a decrease in symptom severity and an overall improvement in condition were observed over several weeks. The patient remains under observation with recommendations on hygiene and prevention of recurrent inflammations.

Therapy Adjustment Due to Insufficient Effect

A young woman came with recurring symptoms despite previously prescribed treatment at another clinic. An evaluation of her current condition was conducted along with a review of prior prescriptions, focusing on possible side effects and tolerability. Based on clarified data, the treatment plan was adjusted using an individualized approach. Subsequent observations showed partial improvement and a reduction in the frequency of exacerbations. Regular follow-up and timely therapy adjustments were recommended as needed.

Chronic Course with Comorbidities

A patient with a long history of gynecological issues sought a comprehensive examination. It was important to consider the presence of concomitant inflammatory processes and their impact on the primary condition. The physician performed an extensive review of the medical history and ordered additional tests to clarify the diagnosis. The condition stabilized after implementation of a comprehensive plan, including symptom control and corrective measures. The patient continues to be monitored to maintain results and prevent exacerbations.

Symptom Exacerbation and Monitoring Plan

An elderly woman presented with a sudden deterioration: increased itching and discomfort, along with pain. It was necessary to rapidly assess the causes of the exacerbation and rule out serious complications. After examination and additional studies, a plan for intensive monitoring and supportive therapy was developed. At the follow-up visit, stabilization of the condition and symptom reduction were noted. An individual preventive plan was created to reduce the risk of new exacerbations.

How long does a consultation last?

The consultation usually lasts 30–60 minutes; please confirm when booking.

How should I prepare for the appointment?

It is recommended to write down your symptoms, bring a list of medications, and results of previous examinations.

What should I bring to the appointment?

Bring your test results, imaging scans, a list of medications, and notes about your symptoms.

Do I need to come on an empty stomach?

Usually not, unless otherwise specified when booking.

How many visits are typically required?

The number of visits depends on the complexity of the situation and the treatment plan.

When can I expect to see the first results of treatment?

Initial changes are assessed individually depending on the therapy.

What should I do if my condition worsens before the appointment?

If your condition worsens, contact your doctor or emergency services if you experience dangerous symptoms.

Can treatment be combined with my current medications?

This is discussed during the appointment; do not change your medications on your own.

Is it possible to have a consultation online?

Yes, online consultations are available by prior appointment.

Can I come with tests I have already completed?

Yes, you should bring results of any previous tests with you.

Do I need to come back for follow-up visits, and how often?

Follow-up visits are planned individually depending on your condition.

Can I get a second opinion?

Yes, you can discuss your results and treatment for a second opinion.

What should I do if symptoms return after improvement?

You should schedule an appointment for evaluation and possible therapy adjustment.

What tests are needed for infections?

The testing approach depends on symptoms and medical history.

Is treatment possible during pregnancy?

This is discussed individually, considering your condition and stage of pregnancy.

What should I do if new symptoms appear during treatment?

Contact your doctor for advice and possible modification of the treatment plan.

How often should examinations be done for chronic conditions?

The frequency of examinations is determined based on the disease dynamics and doctor’s recommendations.

Can treatment be started without complete examination?

The decision is made jointly with the doctor after assessing risks and symptoms.