iamhr/2023.012/04/nkwoka et al.

Background: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection that poses serious reproductive health risks, including increased gynecological morbidity and adverse obstetric outcomes. Understanding its prevalence and associated factors among women of reproductive age is essential for improving prevention and treatment. Aim: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of BV among women of reproductive age attending general hospitals in Sokoto State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 496 women aged 15-49, selected through multi-stage sampling from a population of 1,230,388. Data were collected using a checklist based on Amsel’s criteria for diagnosing BV and analyzed using descriptive statistics, and Pearson’s chi-square test. Results: The prevalence of BV was 64.5%. Women aged 15-34 years, those who were married, housewives, and those residing in rural areas had higher BV prevalence. Occupation was significantly associated with BV (p < 0.05), but age, education level, marital status, and residence showed no significant associations (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The high prevalence of BV among women of reproductive age in Sokoto State, Nigeria, with a notable association between BV and occupation, particularly among housewives, underscores the potential for increased gynecological morbidity and adverse outcomes like preterm delivery and pelvic inflammatory disease. These findings align with research across Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, indicating that socio-demographic factors, healthcare access limitations, and cultural practices drive BV’s high prevalence. Effective interventions require targeted public health efforts, economic empowerment, and expanded healthcare access to improve reproductive health outcomes.