DETERMINATION OF T. vaginalis AND OTHER ASSOCIATED STIs AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN ABA NORTH, ABIA STATE NIGERIA

Trichomoniasis is a global public health problem affecting human genitals especially women with severe complications in pregnancy. It is poorly reported. A cross sectional survey of pregnant women in Aba North local council, Abia State southeast Nigeria was undertaken using specimen microscopy and structured questionnaire. Of 286 women investigated the overall prevalence of T. vaginalis alone in the population was 2.1%. T. vaginalis disease proportion was associated with age (p < 0.05). Age range of 25-29 years had highest prevalence (4.8%) while 30-34 years had the least infection (1.05%). Pregnant mothers < 18 years and those within 35 years and above had no T. vaginalis infection. There was no association between trimester and disease proportion (p > 0.05). Of other STIs observed, Candida infection was highest (35.3%) while Chlamydia sp had the least prevalence (0.35%). Pregnant mothers within age of 25–29 years had more Candida infection (63.9%) than age group of 40 years and above. E. coli, Bacteria vaginosis, Staph aureus, and Chlamydia sp, had prevalences of 11.6%, 6.32%, 15.79%, and 1.05% respectively. Proportion of T. vaginalis, Candida, and E. coli infections in relation to age were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Proportions of observed STIs were significantly (p<0.05) associated with marital status. Candida sp and Staph aureus infections were more prevalent among traders and least among housewives. T. vaginalis and other STIs were not associated with level of education (p>0.05). There was significant (p<0.05) relationship between number of sex partners and sexually transmitted infections. Use of contraceptive such as condom was associated with proportion of infection (p < 0.05). T. vaginalis and other STIs are important public health threat in Aba hence routine screening and education of women about safe sex are highly recommended.