Abstract
BackgroundInappropriate feminine hygiene practices are related to vulvovaginitis. We investigated the prevalence of personal hygiene habits among Lebanese women as well as their awareness of adequate practices.MethodsConsists of a cross-sectional observational study. Female patients and nurses at Hotel-Dieu de France University Hospital in Beirut- Lebanon filled a questionnaire about their intimate hygiene habits and knowledge of proper practices.ResultsThe study included 249 women. 21.3 % of the 136 nurses and 38.9 % of the 113 patients reported a history of vulvovaginitis. The majority of women took an intimate bath at least twice daily. 14 % of nurses and 17 % of patients douched.20. Seven percent of the nurses and 43.4 % of the patients used wet wipes. 1.5 % of nurses and 4.4 % of patients used feminine deodorant sprays. There was a significant lack of awareness mainly among patients about suitable hygiene practices as well for their adverse effects.ConclusionEducation provided by nurses, and other healthcare providers is essential to promote reproductive health among Lebanese women.
Highlights
Inappropriate feminine hygiene practices are related to vulvovaginitis
The second population includes female patients admitted to the Obstetrics and Gynecology department at Hotel-Dieu de France Hospital who are predominantly married (92 %), mostly Christian (69 %), housewives (54.9 %) with a university education (59.3 %)
Many preventable causes of vaginitis are related to feminine hygiene practices, which vary considerably by race, age, religion and cultural origins
Summary
Inappropriate feminine hygiene practices are related to vulvovaginitis. We investigated the prevalence of personal hygiene habits among Lebanese women as well as their awareness of adequate practices. In a random digit dialing survey, 8 percent of Caucasian women and 18% of African-American women in the US reported an episode of vaginal symptoms in the previous year [2]. Studies indicated that each practice disrupting the normal vaginal ecosystem leads to the development of vulvovaginitis [4]. Perceptions about reproductive health issues differ significantly between countries, societies, and individuals. Socioeconomic status, race, religion and level of education influence women’s perceptions and behaviors regarding their reproductive health. Feminine hygiene practices vary among women with a high
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