Prevalence of Reproductive Tract Infections/Sexually Transmitted Infections and Their Determinants in Women of Reproductive Age Group, Attending STI Clinic at a Tertiary Care Centre in Lucknow, India

Introduction In India, RTIs/STIs are an important cause of morbidity and mortality among women, especially those with poor access to appropriate health facilities. In our country, many community based studies have been conducted so far to determine prevalence of RTI/STIs utilizing syndromic approach but limited data is available based on laboratory assisted/ etiological approach. Objective The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of RTI/STIs among women of reproductive age group utilizing laboratory assisted approach and to evaluate various socio-demographic determinants indicating vulnerability to them. Material& Methods It was a hospital based prospective observational study conducted in King Georges Medical University, Lucknow from July 2015 to August 2016 and the study protocol was approved by Institutional Ethics Committee. Women with complaints suggestive of RTIs/STIs attending or referred to STI Clinic in King Georges medical University, Lucknow were enrolled. Results Syndromic diagnosis was confirmed with laboratory procedures in only 92 patients i. e. prevalence of laboratory confirmed RTI/STIs in our study was 27 %. Candidiasis was detected in 48 (14.1 %) cases and BV in 37 (11 %), trichomoniasis was diagnosed in 12 (3.5 %), syphilis in 2 (0.6 %), chlamydial infections in 1 (0.3 %). Mixed infections were also observed in the study. Conclusion& Key message The prevalence rates of RTIs for a particular geographical area need to be assessed as it varies from region to region, more local studies are needed for the same. Health education and awareness campaigns should be organized to empower the general population especially women on the causes, risk factors and transmission of RTIs, as most of them are preventable. In addition, efforts should be made to develop affordable, rapid, and effective diagnostic techniques that will improve RTI/STIs detection in every level of health care setting.