PhD Study Highlights Hidden Burden of Genital Tract Infections in Young Women

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Dr Vani Govender has graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), producing critical research that sheds light on the high burden of genital tract infections among adolescent girls and young women during pregnancy and the postpartum period in KwaZulu-Natal.

Supervised by leading expert in HIV prevention, Professor Dhayendre Moodley, her study, ‘Genital Tract Infections in Adolescent Girls and Young Women During Pregnancy and Postpartum in KwaZulu-Natal’, addresses a major but often under-recognised public health challenge in a region heavily affected by HIV.

Govender’s research found that more than half of pregnant adolescent girls and young women tested positive for at least one genital tract infection (GTI) at their first antenatal visit, with many infections occurring without symptoms. Alarmingly, about 40% acquired new infections during pregnancy.

The study further revealed that infections such as sexually transmitted infections and bacterial vaginosis were significantly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight.

Among postpartum women living with HIV, the findings were equally concerning.

Despite being on antiretroviral therapy (ART), nearly one-third had detectable HIV in their blood, and about one in 10 showed evidence of HIV in the genital tract.

“These findings highlight the urgent need to rethink how we screen and manage infections during pregnancy and postpartum care,” said Govender. “Syndromic management alone is not sufficient, as many infections are asymptomatic and go undetected.”

Her research also uncovered important links between co-infections and increased genital inflammation, which may further increase the risk of HIV transmission. The study provides strong evidence supporting routine diagnostic testing and repeat screening, as well as more targeted interventions to protect both mothers and their infants.

Reflecting on her achievement, Govender described completing her PhD as both humbling and rewarding.

“This journey required perseverance, discipline, and resilience. Beyond the academic milestone, this work represents a commitment to improving women’s health and contributing meaningful evidence to a critical public health issue,” she said.

With over 20 years of experience in clinical research, Govender has built a distinguished career spanning laboratory research, study coordination, regulatory affairs, and clinical operations. Her passion for maternal health and HIV research was shaped early in her career while working in a research unit focused on the prevention of mother-to-child transmission and women’s health.

Balancing full-time work, family responsibilities, and doctoral studies, while relocating to the Western Cape, presented significant challenges.

However, with strong mentorship, careful planning, and the unwavering support of her family, she successfully navigated the demanding journey.

“My family, especially my husband and daughter, were my greatest source of strength and motivation,” she said. “Their support made it possible for me to pursue and complete this goal.”

Govender currently serves as Head of Site Operations and Regulatory Affairs at TASK Clinical Research in the Western Cape, overseeing regulatory compliance and clinical trial operations across multiple sites. Her work contributes to the development of safe and effective medical interventions that benefit patients and communities.

“I hope this work contributes to better healthcare practices and inspires further research focused on improving outcomes for women and young people,” she said.

Words: MaryAnn Francis

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini