National technical guidelines on sexually transmitted infections and reproductive tract infections (2024): Summary of updated recommendations from the National AIDS and STD Control Program in India

Abstract Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and reproductive tract infections (RTIs) pose a significant challenge to sexual and reproductive health and well-being across the world. There are reports of increasing trends of STI in India and across the world. The technical guidelines are revised by the National AIDS and STD Control Program (NACP) in India to ensure the implementation of evidence-based approaches for prevention and management of STI and RTI in the country. These guidelines prioritize timely and effective care, recognizing the differential availability of resources for management of these infections across the possible geographies in the country. The recommendations outline clear, step-by-step protocols for healthcare providers, covering clinical and behavioral assessments, laboratory testing, and updated syndromic case management algorithms. It also provides guidance on managing complex or treatment-resistant infections, ensuring that patients receive appropriate and effective care. This paper presents the summary of updated recommendations in the National Technical Guidelines on STIs and RTIs (2024) released by NACP, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.