‘Use protection’: Bengaluru gynaecologist raises alarm over surge in genital infections among young women
New Delhi: A candid warning from a Bengaluru-based gynaecologist has ignited a nationwide conversation on sexual health, dating culture and the importance of safe sex. In a viral Instagram video, Dr Deepa Nambiar said she has witnessed a noticeable increase in young women visiting her clinic with genital infections, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), prompting her to remark: “I don’t like Hinge, Bumble, Tinder or any other dating app because the number of people coming into my clinic has increased, and I don’t like what I’m seeing.” The statement quickly spread across social media, drawing praise from many for raising awareness while also triggering debate over whether dating apps themselves are being unfairly held responsible.
According to Dr Nambiar, women as young as 19 and 20 years old are increasingly presenting with conditions including:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Genital infections
- Genital herpes
- Other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
She cautioned that if left untreated, several of these infections can have long-term consequences, including chronic pelvic pain, infertility and complications affecting reproductive health.
Safe sex and not dating apps is the real message
While Dr Nambiar mentioned dating apps in her remarks, her core message focused on responsible sexual behaviour rather than blaming technology.
She urged young adults not to make impulsive decisions under peer pressure and stressed the importance of practising safe sex.
“Use protection. It is not that difficult. It can save you a lot of time, mental stress and emotional stress,” she said, encouraging sexually active individuals to prioritise condoms, seek timely medical care and undergo screening whenever necessary.
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The doctor’s remarks also surfaced shortly after widespread social media claims alleged that over 7,000 students in Karnataka had tested positive for HIV.
However, the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS) clarified that these claims were misleading. The figures circulating online did not represent newly diagnosed students and had been taken out of context. The clarification underscored the importance of relying on verified public health information instead of viral social media posts.
What are genital infections and why should women not ignore them
Genital infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. While some are sexually transmitted, others may occur due to changes in vaginal flora, poor hygiene, weakened immunity or other medical conditions.
Common symptoms include:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Foul odour
- Itching or burning sensation
- Pain during urination
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Sores, blisters or ulcers around the genital area
Doctors advise that symptoms should never be ignored, as untreated infections can progress to pelvic inflammatory disease, increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy and, in some cases, affect fertility.
Is there evidence linking dating apps and STI risk
Experts caution against drawing a direct causal link between dating apps and sexually transmitted infections. However, several studies have found that people who frequently use dating applications are more likely to report behaviours associated with higher STI risk, including:
- Having multiple sexual partners
- Earlier sexual debut
- Casual sexual encounters
- Inconsistent condom use
A recent Indian study conducted among patients attending an STI clinic found that dating app users were generally younger and reported significantly more sexual partners than non-users. Researchers concluded that dating app use was associated with higher-risk sexual behaviours but emphasised that the apps themselves do not cause infections; unsafe sexual practices remain the primary driver.
International public health researchers have similarly noted that while dating platforms make meeting partners easier, prevention efforts should focus on condom use, routine STI screening, sexual health education and informed decision-making rather than on the technology itself.
Healthcare professionals say most sexually transmitted infections are preventable and many are treatable if diagnosed early.
They recommend:
- Consistent and correct condom use
- Honest communication with sexual partners
- Regular STI screening for sexually active individuals, particularly those with multiple partners
- HPV vaccination where eligible
- Prompt medical consultation if symptoms appear
- Avoiding self-medication for genital symptoms
Medical experts also emphasise that many STIs may initially be asymptomatic, making routine testing an important part of sexual healthcare.
Dr Deepa Nambiar’s viral video has reignited an important public health discussion at a time when conversations around dating, relationships and sexual wellness are becoming increasingly mainstream. While dating apps have transformed how people meet, experts say they should not become convenient scapegoats for a much broader issue.
The real challenge lies in improving sexual health literacy, reducing the stigma around STI testing and ensuring young adults understand that informed choices, protection and early medical intervention remain the most effective safeguards against genital infections.