Prevalence of Vulvo-Vaginitis and Risk Factors Among Women of Reproductive Age in Port Harcourt

Abstract

Background: The yeast-like fungus Candida albicans, a common resident of the mouth, vagina, and intestinal tract, is the source of the infectious disease known as candidiasis. Aim: This research is aimed at determining the prevalence of vulvo-vaginitis and risk factors among women of reproductive age in Port Harcourt. Methodology: This research study was a cross-sectional study consisting 450 randomly selected women attending Rivers State University Teaching Hospital. The participants were categorized into four groups; Out Patients, Pregnant women, HIV positive women and Healthy volunteers. A total of 150 urine samples were collected from out patients, 100 urine samples were collected from pregnant women, 100 urine samples were collected from HIV positive women and 100 urine samples were collected from students (healthy volunteers). A total of 200 HVS samples were collected across all groups and 50 samples from each groups. Via a well-structured questionnaire, data regarding risk factors (awareness, personal hygiene and lifestyle) of candida infection were obtained. Urine samples were tested macroscopically, microscopically and by culturing. HVS samples were tested microscopically and culturing using germ tube test. Results: There was no association (p-value>0.05) between candidiasis and awareness parameters in urine and HVS. There is association (p-value<0.05) between candidiasis and washing, wash private parts, wash with, tight underwear in HVS. Under personal hygiene, there is association (p-value<0.05) between candidiasis and clean after urination in urine but there was no association (p-value>0.05) between candidiasis and repeat underwear. Under lifestyle, there is association (p-value<0.05) between candidiasis and unprotected sex and STI screening of partner in HVS. There was no association (p-value>0.05) between candidiasis and sexually active, protect with and STI screening self in both urine and HVS. Conclusion: This study personal hygiene practice and lifestyle are factors that affect the spread of candidiasis among women attending RSUTH.