5 common infections women face in their 20s

Your 20s often feel like a rollercoaster, balancing careers, relationships, independence, and sometimes further studies. In the middle of it all, it’s easy for health to slip down the priority list.

But your body has a way of reminding you that it needs attention, too. Many women in their 20s experience infections that can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and sometimes even scary. If you’ve been there, you’re not alone.

Here, we’ll talk about some of the most common infections women face at this stage of life.

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

If you’ve ever had a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), you know it’s not child’s play. The burning sensation while peeing, the constant urge to run to the bathroom, and the discomfort that lingers. It can, no doubt, disrupt your entire day. 

Women in their 20s often experience UTIs because of increased sexual activity, stress, dehydration, or even holding in urine for too long.

2. Yeast infections (Candidiasis)

Yeast infections are one of the most common infections women face in their 20s, with the annoying itching, unusual discharge, and discomfort that feels impossible to ignore.

An overgrowth of Candida, a fungus in the body, usually causes them. Triggers can include antibiotics, stress, poor sleep, tight clothing, or hormone changes.

3. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

For some people, their 20s are often a season of exploring intimacy and relationships, but that also comes with the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV, and herpes. 

The truth is, some STIs don’t show symptoms right away, which is why regular screenings are so important. Untreated infections can lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or fertility challenges later on.

4. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Aside from the common infections women face, which have been mentioned, there is Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), which often shows up as an unusual vaginal odour, and sometimes it is accompanied by discharge. 

It’s not technically an STI, but it is linked to an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, which can happen more often in sexually active women. 

Many women feel embarrassed about BV, but it’s far more common than people realise.

5. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most widespread infections young women face. Most strains clear up on their own, but some can cause genital warts or increase the risk of cervical cancer. 

This is why two simple steps are crucial during your 20s: getting regular Pap smears to check for any cervical changes and getting the HPV vaccine to protect against the most dangerous strains.

Now you know a few common infections women face. Navigating infections in your 20s can feel frustrating. You’re young and full of energy, yet your body seems to hold you back. But these experiences are common and nothing to hide. 

Listen to your body, be kind to yourself, and seek care when needed. Protecting your health now is the smartest step for the bright future ahead of you.