Microbial Pattern of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge in Reproductive Age Women Presenting in a Tertiary Health Facility in Imo State Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Abnormal vaginal discharge, a common gynecological issue in reproductive-age women, is primarily caused by microbial pathogens. Since these organisms have been linked to cause severe consequences for the fetus and mother, it is crucial to determine their microbiome pa erns. This study, therefore assessed the microbial pattern of abnormal vaginal discharge in reproductive-age women presenting in a tertiary health facility in Imo State Nigeria

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 368 women between 18-45 years who attended the General Outpatient Clinic of the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri between February and April 2023 recruited via systematic sampling technique. Demographic data were obtained using a pre-tested, structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Two vaginal swab samples were collected from each participant for wet mount and Gram staining, while an endocervical swab was collected for microbial culture. Gram staining and culture were for identification and characterization of the microorganisms. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Quantitative variables were summarized using means and standard deviation while categorical variables were 
summarized using frequencies and percentages. 

Results: The mean age of the participants was 30  ± 4.5 years. Majority of the participants (95.6%) reported a past history of abnormal vaginal discharge while 20.1% reported current history of abnormal vaginal discharge. The associated symptoms reported were vulval itching (81.1%), burning sensation (64.9%), dysuria (37.8%), and dyspareunia (27%). The commonest aetiologic agents isolated from the vaginal discharge specimen were Candida albicans (63.5%), Group B Streptoccocus (6.8%), and Trichomonas vaginalis (2.7%). Polymicrobial agents accounted for 10.8%.
 

Conclusions:  The identification of the common aetiologic agents and associated symptoms of abnormal vaginal discharge in reproductive-age women will improve early diagnosis and prompt treatment of abnormal vaginal discharge in reproductive-age women.