Prevalence of reproductive tract infection symptoms and treatment-seeking behavior among women: a community-based study
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Authors
Sharma, Deepak
Goel, Naveen Krishan
Thakare, Meenal Madhukar
Issue Date
2018-12
Type
Article
Language
en_US
Keywords
Reproductive Tract Infection , Syndromic Case Management , Treatment-Seeking Behavior
Alternative Title
Abstract
Introduction:
Reproductive tract infection (RTI) is a public health problem affecting women's health, especially in developing country like India. The associated stigma with this reproductive morbidity is often a deterrent in seeking health care.
Aims and Objectives:
The aim was to study the prevalence of RTI symptoms and treatment-seeking behavior among married women of reproductive age group.
Methodology:
It was a community-based cross-sectional study. A total of 276 women were interviewed in the community by trained medical social workers. RTI symptoms were defined according to the syndromic case management guideline developed by the World Health Organization. Statistical analysis was performed using the Epi Info software for Windows (CDC Atlanta).
Results:
About one-third (98/276; 35.5%) of women reported symptoms suggestive of RTI. The most commonly experienced symptoms were foul-smelling vaginal discharge (68/98; 69.4%) followed by lower abdominal pain not associated with menstruation (51/98; 52.0%). Around half of those having RTI symptoms sought treatment for their problem (57.1%).
Conclusion:
Health-care professionals in India should focus on strengthening women knowledge of RTI symptoms and encouraging them to seek health care.
Description
Citation
Sharma, D., Goel, N. K., & Thakare, M. M. (2018). Prevalence of reproductive tract infection symptoms and treatment-seeking behavior among women: A community-based study. Indian journal of sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS, 39(2), 79–83. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijstd.IJSTD_97_16
Publisher
Indian Journal of Sexually Transmitted Diseases and AIDS