EFFECTIVENESS OF RED BETEL (PIPER CROCATUM) EXTRACT ON LEUCORRHEA IN WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING AGE

Abstract

Introduction: Reproductive health problems exist in Asia; 76% of women experience vaginal discharge. Vaginal discharge symptoms are also experienced by women of childbearing age (around 31.8%). Women of childbearing age are more at risk of fluor albus, which can be a trigger for reproductive organ infections. One of the treatments is to use betel leaves, which contain natural antiseptics and antibiotics. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of red betel leaf extract (Piper crocatum) against leucorrhea in women of childbearing age. Method: This research method uses a quasi-experiment design with one pre-and post-test design technique group. The research was conducted at the Independent Midwife Practice in Bandung City. The population in the study were all women of childbearing age in Bandung City. The sample consisted of women of childbearing age, according to the inclusion criteria of 36 people. The data obtained were primary data from the measurement of vaginal pH with Neco test litmus paper. The data analysis used was the Wilcoxon test to test the difference in pH scores before and after the intervention. Result: The results showed a significant difference in the use of 0.5% red betel leaf extract in women of childbearing age before and after the intervention. Conclusion: Red betel leaf extract 0.5% is effective in reducing the incidence of leucorrhea. There is a decrease in vaginal pH before and after the use of red betel leaf extract 0.5% by 1.78 (p <0.05).