Prevalence and Risk factors associated with Sexually Transmitted Infections among Women of reproductive age attending reproductive and child health clinics in Dodoma and Dar es Salaam Tanzania

Abstract

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to cause reproductive morbidity worldwide. Socio-demographics and behaviour influence the likelihood of contracting reproductive tract infections and significantly predict STI acquisition. Determining prevalence and analysing the population’s socio-demographic and sexual behaviour can assist in determining its risk profile and prevention strategies. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of curable STIs, bacterial vaginosis and vaginal candidiasis among women of reproductive age attending reproductive and maternal health clinics in Dar es Salaam and Dodoma.

Method: This was a cross-sectional study where high vaginal and endocervical swabs from 400 women were collected and tested for the presence of reproductive tract infections using culture, wet mount preparation, and Gram stain. Women were interviewed on sociodemographic factors, sexual behaviours and clinical symptoms using a pretested questionnaire. A chi-square test was conducted to determine the factors associated with curable STIs. Logistic regression was done to determine independent predictors for STIs using SPSS version 23.

Results: Prevalence of Neisseria gonorrhoea, Trichomonas vaginalis, vaginal candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis was 2.5%,9.8%,13.5%, and 23.3% respectively. High education level was associated with a reduction in the likelihood of having STIs (AOR=0.41, 95%CI: 0.17-0.97). Likewise, consistent condom use was associated with a reduction in the likelihood of having STIs (AOR=0.16, 95% CI: (0.073-0.34). Participants with the recent history of STI were more likely to have STIs (AOR=2.4, 95%CI:1.05-5.27).

Conclusion: High prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis, bacterial vaginosis and vaginal candidiasis in studied women calls for an intervention to prevent infection complications. We recommend health education and screening interventions to all reproductive-age women to reduce transmission of curable STIs and bacterial vaginosis.