Prevalence of reproductive tract infection symptoms and treatment-seeking behavior among women: A community-based study

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.