Syndromic approach to identify cases of vaginal discharge: a cross-sectional study among females of Shaheed Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

Background: Management of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) is important in controlling STIs and to break the chain of infection and transmission.Syndromic case management is a standardized evidence-based approach which utilizes clinical management algorithms and flowcharts that are handy and can be consistently used across health care providers. The objectives of the study were to identify cases of vaginal discharge in Shaheed Nagar, Bhopal and to provide them treatment following syndromic approach.Methods: Prospective cross-sectional study carried out over a period of three months among reproductive age group females (15-45 years) in Shaheed Nagar, Bhopal. Purposive sampling by conducting door- to- door survey until 150 women fulfilling study criteria was interviewed. A pre-designed questionnaire used for data collection. Educational intervention given to all participants. 37 participants identified with vaginal discharge syndrome and were assisted by study team to gynecological OPD for obtaining treatment based on syndromic approach. Data entered in MS Excel 2007 and statistical analysis carried out using epi-info 7.2. Proportions and percentages were calculated. Chi-square was used to find out association between prevalence of vaginal discharge and qualitative variables. P value <0.05 considered statistically significant.Results: Prevalence of vaginal discharge was 24.67%. The most common presenting complaint was general weakness (52%). The most common diagnosis was cervicitis (8.67%) followed by vaginitis (4.67%). Statistically significant correlation was found between presence of disease (STI) and use of intra- uterine device (IUD), non-use of sanitary pads, marital status, occupation and socio- economic class.Conclusions: Abnormal vaginal discharge can both be the cause as well as the effect of pelvic inflammatory disease.