Abstract

The main objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and distribution ofCandida vaginitis in women of reproductive age in Onitsha metropolis and its environs. A retrospective (survey) study of 811 high vaginal swabs (HVS) recorded samples and results of patients with symptomatic C. vaginitis were done between 2007 and 2012. The study also attempted to ascertain if relationships existed between certain bio-social characteristics (e.g. age, marital status, physiologic state, location and occupation and the prevalence of C. vaginitis). The results showed that the different age groups recorded different prevalence rates of C. vaginitis with 22 to 26 years having the highest with 28.9% (234/811). Higher prevalence rate of 76.8% (623/811) was recorded for non pregnant women against 23.2% (188/811) recorded for pregnant women. Similarly, significant relationships were established between variables like marital status, location, occupation of the subjects and the prevalence of C. vaginitis (P<0.05). The authors concluded by recommending compulsory high vaginal swab (HVS) screenings on all women of reproductive age. HVS culture test should be done to confirm or exclude involvement ofCandida albicans for any observation of vaginal discharge on any woman before treatment. The authors went ahead to advise the health planners to use the findings of this study in their future plans.

Key words: Epidemiology, Candida vaginitis.