Facteurs associés à l'infertilité féminine liée aux adhérences à Mbujimayi (RDC) / Factors associated with female infertility due to adherences in Mbujimayi (DRC)

Dans une société pro-nataliste, l'infertilité féminine est considérée comme un drame. Cette étude avait pour objectif d'identifier les facteurs associés à l'infertilité mécanique féminine liée aux adhérences pelviennes à Mbujimayi. MéthodologieIl s'agissait d'une étude cas-témoins, réalisée dans les Hôpitaux Généraux de Référence Dipumba et Saint Sauveur à Mbujimayi (RDC), durant une période allant du premier janvier 2006 au 31 décembre 2020. Nous avons colligé un total de 354 cas RésultatsLes facteurs associés à l'infertilité mécanique féminine étaient: l'âge inférieur à 20 ans qui multipliait par 4 le risque de développer des adhérences pelviennes (OR=4,01[1,19-13,49]); l'antécédent des infections sexuellement transmises (IST) (OR=1,77[1,06-2,96]) et l'antécédent de chirurgie abdomino-pelvienne (OR=1,76[1,07-2,88] qui multipliaient respectivement de presque par 2 le risque d'avoir les adhérences pelviennes. Ces associations étaient statistiquement significatives. ConclusionLes IST et la chirurgie abdomino-pelvienne exposent au développement des adhérences pelviennes et/ou aux altérations tubaires conduisant à l'infertilité féminine. Leur prévention doit se baser sur la prise en charge préventive des IST par la sensibilisation pour une sexualité responsable surtout chez les adolescentes, la rationalisation dans les indications et la bonne pratique de la chirurgie abdomino-pelvienne par les médecins.

Introduction: In a pro-natalist society, female infertility is considered a tragedy. This study aimed to identify the factors associated with female mechanical infertility related to pelvic adhesions in Mbujimayi. Methodology This was a case-control study, carried out in Dipumba and Saint Sauveur General Reference Hospitals in Mbujimayi (DRC), during a period from January 1, 2006 until December 31, 2020. We collected a total of 354 cases ResultsThe factors associated with female mechanical infertility were: age below 20 years, which multiplied by 4 the risk of developing pelvic adhesions (OR=4.01 [1.19-13.49]); history of sexually transmitted infections (STI) (OR=1.77[1.06-2.96]) and history of abdomino-pelvic surgery (OR=1.76[1.07-2.88] which respectively increased the risk of having pelvic adhesions by almost 2. These associations were statistically significant. Conclusion: Sexually transmitted infections (STI) and abdomino-pelvic surgery expose the patient to the development of pelvic adhesions and/or tubal alterations leading to female infertility. Their prevention must be based on the preventive management of STI by raising awareness for responsible sexuality, especially among adolescents, the rationalization of the indications and the good practice of abdomino-pelvic surgery by doctors

Socioecological analysis of determinants of early adolescent sexuality in Benin: a qualitative study

Introduction: early adolescent sexuality is associated with an increase in risky sexual behaviour, unwanted pregnancies, and the occurrence of sexually transmitted infections. However, despite the efforts of governments and their partners, the implementation and effectiveness of appropriate and adapted services to improve adolescent sexual and reproductive health are lagging. Therefore, this study aimed to document determinants of early adolescent sexuality in the central district of Tchaourou in Benin based on a socio-ecological approach. Methods: an explorative and descriptive qualitative study was conducted using focus groups and individual interviews based on the socio-ecological model. Participants included adolescents, parents, teachers, and community leaders in Tchaourou. Results: the number of participants in each focus group was 8 (32). There were 20 girls and 12 boys aged 10-19 years, of whom 16 were students (7 females and nine males) and 16 were apprentice dressmakers and hairdressers. In addition, five participants attended individual interviews (two community leaders, one religious' leader, one teacher and one parent). Four themes were identified that influence early sexuality among adolescents and grouped into individual determinants related to knowledge about early sexuality; interpersonal determinants related to adolescents' function, including the influence of family and peers; community and organizational determinants related to where harmful sociocultural norms; political determinants comprising the disadvantaged socioeconomic status of the communities where adolescents live. Conclusion: many factors at multiple social levels influence early adolescent sexuality in the commune of Tchaourou in Benin. Therefore, interventions directed at these various levels are needed urgently.

Sexually transmitted infection (STI): A malady with skewed marital unfaithfulness, the Nigerian experience

Marital unfaithfulness is a major contributor to sexually transmitted infections in both sexes; however, societal view of the menace seems to use various lenses for the different sexes. Globally, evidence suggests that marital infidelity has existed in history. In Africa, as well as in Western society, infidelity is a problem facing many families and accounts for high incidence of divorce. This narrative review described and synthesized literature on marital infidelity and its association with sexually transmitted infections. We conducted informal interviews with married women on their experiences with marital infidelity in Nigeria. Associated physical, social and psychological cultured imposed consequences were experienced by women in Nigeria. The recurrent themes felt helplessness, enduring physical, emotional and psychological torture, accepting fate with reservation and being strangers in marital union. This narrative review could initiate critical thoughts and discussions on the factors in skewed marital unfaithful and the contribution to reproductive health and family life.

Factors associated with risky sexual behaviour among sexually experienced undergraduates in Osun state, Nigeria

Background: Risky sexual behavior (RSB) is common among youths which predispose them to sexually transmitted infections. This study sets out to identify the factors associated with RSB among undergraduates in Osun state. Methods: The study design was descriptive cross sectional and a total of 550 respondents from two universities in Osun state were sampled using a multistage sampling technique, out of which data from 266 sexually experienced respondents was further analyzed. Data collected via a semi­structured self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses. Results: The 266 respondents consisted of 54.5% males and 45.5% females and larger percentage of them were in the age group 15-24years. Seven out of ten respondents (69.9%) were sexually active while 65.8% were involved in at least one RSB. Of the 266 respondents, 28.6% ever had concurrent multiple sexual partners, 15.8% used alcohol/drugs at last sex while 48.1% did not use condom at last sex. More males (71.7%), alcohol users (76.8%), drug users (78.0%), pornography watchers (82.7%), internet users (71.2%) respondents "not in good terms with mum" (86.7%) and "those whose mum doesn't instruct them morally" (84.2%) were involved in RSB compared to their respective counterparts (p<0.05). However, there were no identifiable predictors of RSB on regression analysis. Conclusion: Risky Sexual Behavior is prevalent among undergraduates with males being more involved, among other associated factors. Concerned stakeholders should engage youths via behavioral change communication strategies so as to significantly reduce their involvement in RSB

Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Neisseria gonorrhea and Chlamydia trachomatis isolated from individuals attending STD clinics in Kampala, Uganda

Background: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) management in sub-Saharan Africa is syndromic but molecular diagnostics provide quicker, sensitive diagnosis and treatment. Effective STD control hinges on identification and treatment of infected persons and sexual partner contact tracing. Objectives: This study assessed feasibility of using the Xpert CT/NG test to identify prevalent Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhea (NG) infections among STD clinic attendees and their sexual partners and tested for antimicrobial resistance for N. gonorrhea. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at 4 outpatient STD clinics in Kampala, Uganda from February 2019 to October 2019. Participants received a syndromic diagnosis, were tested for NG and CT, as well as their sexual partners. Urine (men) and high vaginal swabs (women) were collected, examined using Xpert CT/NG assay. A total of 79 participants were enrolled at baseline of whom 25 had CT/NG. 21 partners of infected baseline participants and 7 partners of the 21 primary partners were enrolled. Results: The mean age of the reported sexual partners was 26 (18-43) years. The prevalence of NG was 25% at baseline and 18 % for CT. Nine (11.4%) people were dually infected. Men were more likely to have NG (p<0.001) at multivariable level. Two participants tested HIV-1 positive. On microbiological culture, 8 samples (2.5%) grew NG, and all were resistant to penicillin, ciprofloxacin. For CT, we found a preponderance of the F-serovar in this population. Conclusion: The most prevalent organism was Neisseria gonorrhea. Generally, the prevalence of CT and NG was high. Infection proportions increased among primary partners, particularly women. Etiologic testing without partner tracing and treatment may underestimate burden of CT/NG in this population and contribute to re-infection

Knowledge and practices of female students at University of Kara regarding sexually transmitted infections in Togo, 2021

A good knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in female students is an important element in the prevention of STI transmission. The objective of this study is to describe the level of knowledge and practices on STI among female students at the University of Kara. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the University of Kara from July to September 2021. Data were collected using a standard, digitalised, selfadministered questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was used to describe factors associated with the level of knowledge of STIs. A total of 1,055 female students with a median age of 21 years (interquartile range: 20-24) participated in the study. More than one-third (33.7%) of the students had good knowledge of STI. Having already been tested for HIV (aOR=3.25; 95% CI 2.36-4.52), having already had sex (aOR=1.56; 95% CI 1.10-2.24) and the level of education (AOR=3.46; 95% CI 2.10-5.85) were significantly associated with good STIs knowledge. Among the 723 female students (68.5%) who already had sex, 32.5% reported inconsistent use of condoms during sexual intercourse and 18.9% reported having multiple sexual partners. The results of this study highlight the importance of intensifying STIs prevention efforts (awareness, screening, and vaccination) among female students at the University of Kara.

Recency of HIV infection, antiretroviral therapy use and viral loads among symptomatic sexually transmitted infection service attendees in South Africa

Background. Better integration of HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention and treatment services is needed to accelerate progress towards the goal of zero new HIV infections. Objectives. To describe HIV positivity, antiretroviral therapy (ART) use, viral suppression and recency of HIV infection among symptomatic STI service attendees at two primary care clinics in South Africa. Methods. In a cross-sectional study, male and female STI service attendees presenting with symptoms consistent with STI syndromes were enrolled following informed consent. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was completed and appropriate genital and blood specimens were collected for STI testing and HIV biomarker measurements including recency of infection and antiretroviral (ARV) drug levels. Descriptive statistics were used to describe enrolled attendees, and to determine the proportion of attendees who were HIV-positive, recently infected, taking ART and virally suppressed. HIV-positive attendees with detectable ARVs were considered to be on ART, while those with viral loads (VLs) ≤200 copies/mL were considered virally suppressed. Results. Of 451 symptomatic attendees whose data were analysed, 93 (20.6%) were HIV-positive, with 15/93 (16.1%) being recently infected. Recent infection was independently associated with genital ulcer disease at presentation, especially ulcers with no detectable STI pathogens. Among the 78 (83.9%) with long-term infection, only 30 (38.5%) were on ART, with 23/30 (76.7%) virally suppressed. Conclusions. In a population at risk of HIV transmission, there was a high burden of recent infection and unsuppressed VLs. Incorporating pre-exposure prophylaxis, ART initiation and adherence support into STI services will be necessary for progress towards eliminating HIV transmission

Knowledge, attitude and preventive practices of sexually transmitted infections among unmarried youths in an urban community in Lagos State, Nigeria

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are of public health importance as over 1 million STIs are acquired daily worldwide. One-third of the new cases of curable STIs affect younger persons aged less than 25 years. Sexually transmitted infections can lead to severe complications beyond the immediate impact of infections as such. Aim: This study assessed knowledge of, attitude towards and preventive practices of STI among young unmarried persons in Surulere local government area (LGA) of Lagos State, Nigeria. Setting: The study was conducted among young unmarried persons in Surulere LGA, Lagos State, Nigeria, between June and November 2018. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 450 young unmarried persons selected using a multistage sampling technique. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain data. Analysis was carried out with Epi-Info 7.2.2.2 software. Chi-square was used to test for associations. Level of significance was at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The mean age was 19.9 + 2.5 years. Majority of the respondents (84.7%) had heard of STIs. About two-third (65.6%) had good knowledge, while majority (98.6%) had good attitude towards the prevention of STIs, but less than half (34.0%) had good preventive practices. Knowledge of STI was statistically significantly associated with age, level of education, attitude and preventive practices of the respondents. Conclusion: Most of the respondents were aware and had good attitude towards prevention of STI, but gaps exist in knowledge and preventive practices. Hence, targeted education to improve the knowledge and preventive practices against STI among young unmarried persons is recommended

Knowledge of sexually transmitted infections amongst pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in west coast region of the Gambia

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) during pregnancy remain a public health concern especially in developing countries including The Gambia. This study assessed the knowledge of STIs and its associated factors amongst pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in West Coast region of The Gambia. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used. Two hundred and eighty pregnant women attending antenatal care in Brikama District Hospital, Brikama, and Bandung Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Bandung, who gave their consent, participated in this study. The instrument for data collection was an interviewer administered questionnaire. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS for Windows, version 21.0. Level of significance was set at p < 0.05. All the respondents were aware of HIV/AIDS and their main source of information was from health care providers. However, most of them 263 (93.9%) had poor knowledge of STIs. Level of education (p < 0.001) and employment status (p = 0.001) had significant association with level of knowledge of STIs. This study also identified low level of education [AOR: 0.04 (95% CI: 0.01 ­ 0.35)], and unemployment [AOR:21.97 (95% CI: 1.57 ­ 306.65)] as statistically significant predictors of low level of knowledge of STIs amongst the respondents. There is need for mass media campaigns and other public health measures aimed at increasing knowledge of STIs as this will herald effective intervention strategies towards the prevention of STIs

Sexual and reproductive health of adolescents in schools for people with disabilities

Introduction: persons with disabilities have the same sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs as the abled people but they often face barriers to SRH information and services which are necessary for healthy and safe relationships, protection from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study sought to access the SRH services among adolescents with disabilities in four Special Needs Schools in Ghana. Methods: the study adopted a cross-sectional study design with a quantitative approach to data collection between the months of January to March, 2018. A structured and pretested questionnaire was used to collect data from adolescents with disabilities from selected schools in Ghana. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were performed using chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression.Results: majority of participants had hearing disability (52.1%). The average age at menarche among females was 13 years whiles the age at which puberty was attained among boys was 14 years. School teachers were the major source of information on SRH for the respondents (63.7%) followed by parents (12.2%). A majority (67.1%) of respondents had good knowledge of SRH. Factors which were significantly associated with knowledge level were age (p=0.026), religion (p=0.034), sources of information (p<0.001), guardians (p=0.049).Conclusion: the majority of participants had good knowledge of SRH, although their knowledge of contraceptive and access were poor. Only condoms were mostly known. There is the need for increased awareness on the availability of other contraceptives methods and the removal of barriers to contraceptive methods

The demographic and clinical profiles of women presenting with vaginal discharge syndrome at primary care facilities in South Africa: Associations with age and implications for management

Background. Current South African guidelines for the management of vaginal discharge syndrome (VDS) do not recommend treatment for sexually transmitted infection (STI) pathogens for women aged ≥35 years whose partners do not have male urethritis syndrome. The guideline assumes that older women are unlikely to have an STI and that their partners do not have asymptomatic infections.Objectives. To describe the demographic, behavioural and clinical characteristics of women with VDS, comparing older women (≥35 years) with younger women, and to determine the performance of age alone as a criterion for predicting the presence of STI.Methods. This was a cross-sectional study at seven primary healthcare centres taking part in the aetiological surveillance of STIs between January 2015 and December 2016. Eligible women presenting with VDS were enrolled and completed a nurse-administered questionnaire. Genital swabs and blood specimens were collected for laboratory testing. Data were entered into surveillance-specific databases and exported into Stata 14 for analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to compare demographic and clinical profiles of older with younger women. A receiver operator curve (ROC) was used to determine the age cut-off that would best differentiate between women who had infection with STI pathogens and those without.Results. Of 757 women enrolled, 157 (20.7%) were aged ≥35 years. HIV positivity was 46.6%, and higher in older than younger women (54.9% v. 44.5%; p=0.02). Of those enrolled, 283 (37.4%) had bacterial vaginosis (BV) and/or Candida infection only, 232 (30.7%) had BV or Candida with STI pathogens detected, 98 (13%) were infected with STI pathogens only, and 144 (19.0%) did not have any detectable STI or non-STI causes. Although older women were less likely than younger women to have Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis or Mycoplasma genitalium infection (23.6% v. 38.2%; p<0.01), the burden in older women was not negligible. The area under the ROC for age was 57.5% (95% confidence interval 53.2 - 61.8%), which implies suboptimal performance.Conclusions. Although older women with VDS were less likely than younger women to have STIs, a significant proportion of them did have an infection with STI pathogens. Age alone was not a good criterion for discriminating between women with and without infection with STI pathogens. Other ways of improving the VDS algorithm performance are needed, as is better integration of HIV and STI prevention and treatment

Nanotechnology and the future of condoms in the prevention of sexually transmitted infections

Objective: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is among the utmost destructive viruses humankind has ever faced in almost four decades. It carries with it profound socioeconomic and public health implications. Unfortunately, there is, currently, no effective cure for HIV infections. This review discusses the various types of condoms, microbicides, and the potential use of nanoparticle-coated condoms as a means of diminishing the risk of HIV transmission and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during sexual intercourse. Methods: We identified 153 articles from 1989 to 2015 indexed in various journal platforms, reports, and magazines. Using the PRISMA guidelines as proxy in performing the research review process, only 53 articles were selected. Ideally, articles that failed to describe the nature and types of condoms, condom failures, nanoparticle-coated condoms, microbicides, and HIV prevention were excluded. Results and Discussion: In general, it has been shown that antiretroviral therapy (ART) currently available can only limit transmission and acquisition of HIV strains. Apart from ART treatment, the use of condoms has been identified globally as a cost-effective intervention for reducing the spread of HIV and other STIs. However, while condoms are supposed to be effective, reliable, and easy to use, research has shown that they are attributable to 20% failures including breakages. Nevertheless, other studies have shown that coating condoms with nanoparticles is an important and effective method for reducing condom breakage and HIV/STI transmission during sexual intercourse. Conclusions: A review of literature cited in this paper has shown that nanotechnology-based condom systems have the potential to prevent the spread of HIV and STIs. Furthermore, the antimicrobial nature of some nanoparticles could provide a safe and efficient way to disrupt and/or inactivate different STIs ­ including viral, bacterial, and fungal diseases

HIV and sexually transmitted co-infections among sex workers in the Southern African economic region

Background: The Southern African Development Community (SADC) economic block is the most affected region by HIV epidemic in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite programmatic interventions, HIV infections remain unprecedentedly high among female sex workers (FSW) in the region. This review assesses the HIV burden and the drivers associated with FSW in the SADC region. Methods: We systematically extracted and analyzed HIV burden and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) research data on FSW indexed in various journal platform and reports from governmental and nongovernmental organizations between 2003 and 2015. Meta-analysis technique was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of the HIV burden among FSW in the region. Results: Of the 192 peer-reviewed articles and reports addressing HIV burden, only 21 articles met eligibility criteria totaling 14998 FSW. The combined overall pool HIV prevalence was estimated at 42.0% (95% CI 0.41­0.43). The estimated pooled HIV prevalence ranged from 16% (95% CI 0.13­18) in Democratic Republic of Congo, 59% (95% CI 0.57­0.62) in South Africa and 71% (95% CI 0.65­0.76) in Malawi. The most common STIs reported were syphilis, Chlamydia, and gonorrhea with little emphasis on viruses. Structural factors such as stigma and discrimination, access to healthcare services and various socioeconomic and political barriers impeded treatment and prevention. Conclusion: The HIV prevalence among FSW was 5­30 times higher when compared to the overall female reproductive age population in the SADC region. This signifies and necessitates increase evidence based HIV/STIs research and programs among FSW in the SADC region

Evaluation de la prise en charge diagnostique et thérapeutique des infections sexuellement transmissibles au CHU Gabriel Toure

But :Il s'agissait de rapporter des cas d'infection sexuellement transmissible (IST) en consultation et d'évaluer la prise en charge syndromique. Patients et méthodes : Nous avons effectué une étude prospective et descriptive chez les patients qui avaient consulté pour IST au service d'urologie du CHU Gabriel TOURE d'Avril 2013 à Mars 2014.Les cas VIH n'ont pas été inclus. L'approche syndromique a été utilisée. Résultats :Nous avons obtenu les résultats suivants : 460 cas d'IST (Dysurie, Cystite, Tuméfaction scrotale, Prostatite). Le sexe ratio était de 20,52 en faveur du sexe masculin. La tranche d'âge 23-32 ans était la plus touchée, les patients célibataires étaient les plus représentés. La majorité était bambara. Tous les cas avaient été diagnostiqués cliniquement. Les examens complémentaires étaient demandés pour avoir une confirmation du diagnostic. Sur le plan de la prise en charge syndromique, l'antibiothérapie probabiliste a été appliquée à chaque type IST. L'antibiothérapie, avait été réadaptée à l'antibiogramme avec une réponse thérapeutique efficace dans : 61,61% pour les prostatites, 98,60% pour l'urétrite, 100% tuméfaction scrotale, 90, 78%pour la cystite. Conclusion : La prise en charge des IST selon l'approche syndromique est une option dans les pays où le diagnostic de laboratoire n'est pas toujours disponible

Infections sexuellement transmissibles chez les hommes ayant des rapports sexuels avec d'autres hommes suivis à l'Hôpital Institut d'Hygiène Sociale de Dakar

Introduction : Les relations sexuelles entre hommes, constituent un facteur de propagation des infections sexuellement transmissibles (IST) et du VIH/sida dans les pays en développement. L'objectif de notre étude était de déterminer les aspects épidémiologiques, cliniques et thérapeutiques des IST chez les hommes ayant des rapports sexuels avec d'autres hommes (HSH) suivis à l'IHS de Dakar. Malades et méthode : Il s'agissait d'une étude transversale et analytique effectuée sur une période de 4 mois à l'IHS. L'analyse des données était faite grâce au logiciel IBM Statistics SPSS 20. Résultats : Nous avons colligé 31 HSH avec IST symptomatiques, soit une prévalence de 15,65%. L'âge moyen était de 28,25 ans. Quarante-deux pour cent (n = 13) étaient connus séropositifs. Vingt-quatre étaient bisexuels (77,4%). Les types de rapport étaient : réceptifs (38,7% ; n = 12), insertifs (29% ; n = 9) et les deux (32,3% ; n = 10). Ils avaient eu, en moyenne, 5 partenaires occasionnels durant la dernière année. L'utilisation de préservatifs n'était systématique que chez 11 patients (35,5%). Une rémunération des rapports sexuels était notée chez 87% (n =27). Les signes d'IST retrouvés étaient : écoulement (74,2% ; n =23), condylomes (19,4% ; n = 6) et ulcération (16 % ; n = 5). La topographie était : anale (45% ; n = 14) et génitale (54,2% ; n = 17). Le traitement syndromique était efficace chez tous les HSH présentant un écoulement ou une ulcération.Conclusion : Notre étude montre une fréquence élevée des IST symptomatiques, de l'infection à VIH et de la bisexualité chez les HSH suivis à l'IHS. Ces résultats montrent que la lutte contre les IST et le VIH passe nécessairement, en partie, par le renforcement des attitudes préventives chez cette population-clé

Candidaemia or candidasis: controversy of staphylococcus sexually transmitted infection?

Herbal medications are becoming increasingly popular but a most-extraordinary claim by traditional/herbal medical practitioners relates to a Gram-positive bacterium; Staphylococcus check for this species in other resources ; which has been depicted as a deadly sexually transmitted disease that manifest in the form of worms and other symptoms; with contributory roles including infertility; sexual dysfunction and impotency. They further boasted that they are the only ones that possessed the remedy (herbal) for the Staphylococcus sexually transmitted scourge. In the absence of distinguishing phenotypic taxonomic tools; Staphylococcus and Candida check for this species in other resources spp. may be confused for each other. However; Staphylococcus is a bacterium and not an infection; therefore; there must be more to the traditional medical practitioners' boasts in ability to cure an infection that was not an infection in the first place. In conclusion; the common sense is that candiaemia or candidiasis is most likely the misdiagnosed sexually transmitted Staphylococcus disease; which is of significant human clinical health issue

Vulnerability and Knowledge of Sexually Transmitted Infections among Female Traders of Reproductive Age in Enugu; Nigeria

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) constitute major public health concern and enigma. A comprehensive knowledge of the modes of transmission is necessary to evolve an effective preventive strategy. Aim: The aim of the study is to assess the vulnerability; knowledge and prevention of STIs among female traders of reproductive age in Enugu; Southeast Nigeria. Subjects and Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out on female traders aged 15-49 years at Ogbete Main Market; Enugu; Southeast Nigeria. Data was analyzed using Epi-Info 2000 version 3.3.1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Atlanta USA) was used to analyze the data and results were presented in tabular form. Results: A total of 200 female traders of reproductive age participated in the study. The mean (standard deviation) age was 26 (7.4) years. 16 (32/200) were adolescents. Knowledge of specific STIs was highest for human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome 90 (130/200). Parents were poor sources of information as only 28.5 (57/200) respondents heard about STIs from their parents compared with 46 (151/200); non-use of condoms 62 (124/200) and early debut 58 (116/200). Majority 67.5 135/200) were aware that STIs could be treated by a visit to the doctor while 21.5 (43/200) preferred traditional/herbal healers. Conclusion: The inclusion of health education in schools' curricula to ensure that adolescents are adequately aware of STIs; their modes of transmission; prevention and treatment before embarking on any vocation out-of-school is advocated

Pattern of Cervical Dysplasia among Women of Reproductive Age in Zaria; Northern Nigeria

Background : Cervical cancer is a preventable and the most common female genital tract cancer despite the availability of screening services for precancerous lesions of the cervix. This study aims to determine the prevalence of cervical dysplasia in women of reproductive age in Zaria. Methodology: A prospective study of 131 women of child bearing age attending the family planning and Gynaecology clinics in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital; Zaria - Nigeria were recruited for the study after obtaining their consent. Cervical samples were collected and subjected to pap staining and cytological examination by a pathologist and classified using the Bethesda System. The data were processed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17. Bivariate analysis was done and the level of significance was set at a P 0.05. Results: Cervical dysplasia prevalence of 7.0 was found out of which High Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion (HSIL) was 2.3 (n

Pattern of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Positive Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in North-Central Nigeria

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are prevalent during pregnancy and may have adverse sequalae in both mother and fetus. Interactions between these infections and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) synergize and may cause adverse pregnancy outcomes and reverse the gains of prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV. Objectives: The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of candidiasis; trichomoniasis; gonococcal infection; syphilis; and bacterial vaginosis in HIV pregnant women and compare with HIV negative controls. Materials and Methods: A case-control study was conducted during the period from April to December 2010 at the Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology of University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital and three Primary Health Centers in Ilorin. A total of 160 HIV positive pregnant women attending antenatal clinics were recruited; along with the same number of HIV negative matched controls. A structured proforma was used to collect information from patients; vaginal examination was performed and samples were taken from the endocervix and the posterior vaginal fornix with swab sticks. Results: STIs were recovered from 142 women; giving overall prevalence of 44.4. HIV infected women had a higher prevalence (60) compared to uninfected (28.8). The most prevalent STI was vaginal candidiasis (29.1); followed by bacterial vaginosis (9.7); and trichomoniasis (5.6). The prevalence of candidiasis; bacterial vaginosis; and trichomoniasis was higher among HIV positive pregnant women compared to HIV negative controls (P 0.05). No woman had syphilis or gonorrhea. Conclusion: The prevalence of candidiasis; bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis was higher in HIV infected pregnant women compared to uninfected. Routine screening of HIV infected pregnant women for these organisms is advocated