Epidemiological evaluation of risk factors associated with vaginal candidiasis in a cross section of pregnant women in Trinidad and Tobago

Abstract

Vaginal Candidiasis and associated epidemiological risk factors prevalent among a cross section of pregnant women attending tertiary hospital in Trinidad and Tobago was evaluated. Standardized questionnaire was used to survey 492 pregnant women over a period of 10 months in 2019. Vaginal swab was collected and processed using standard microbiological laboratory methods for phenotypic identification. Data were analyzed using SPSS to identify potential risk factors. Chi-squared (ꭓ²) test and logistic regression tests examined associations and odds ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis was 44.9% with Candida albicans as predominant species identified (62%, N=492). Vaginal candidiasis was statistically significant for several risk factors, including second trimester (p = 0.03), age group 26 – 34 years (p=003), history of masturbation especially during the last 48hours prior to the swabbing (p=0.05), and wearing of pants as opposed to skirt clothes (p=0.04). In conclusion, several epidemiological risk factors are associated vaginal candidiasis among cross section of pregnant women in the country. Patient education, microbiological investigations and appropriate treatment will improve antenatal healthcare delivery in the country.