Use of Vaginal Cleansing Products and Its Relationship with Abnormal Vaginal Discharge among Women at the Tema General Hospital

Abstract

Background: The use of vaginal cleansing products is fast becoming part of the daily routine of women. Vaginal cleansing products come in diverse forms such as gels, intimate washes, and wipes among others. Most studies on vaginal cleansing products focus on douching but little attention has been given to the other vaginal cleansing products and their impact on the reproductive health and quality of life of the women who use them. Objective: This study sought to determine the prevalence of vaginal cleansing product use among women at the Tema General Hospital and its relationship with abnormal vaginal discharge. Methods: Using a semi-structured questionnaire, a hospital-based cross-sectional survey was carried out at the Tema General Hospital. Female patients aged 18 to 47 years were selected via convenience sampling from the OPD, OB/GYN and pharmacy department attendants. Data was analysed using STATA version 17.0. Descriptive statistics were carried out for all the socio-demographic characteristics of respondents. A chi-square test was used to assess the association between the use of vaginal cleansing products and abnormal vaginal discharge. The magnitude and strength of the association between vaginal cleansing products use and abnormal vaginal discharge as an outcome were determined while adjusting for other covariates using logistic regression analysis. Results: The majority of respondents reported the use of VCPs (74%). The use of commercially manufactured products especially feminine washes was prevalent among those who used VCPs. All respondents had experienced abnormal vaginal discharge at least once in the past six months. A relationship between the use of VCPs and abnormal vaginal discharge was determined and participants who used VCPs had about four times higher odds of experiencing AVD compared to participants who did not use VCPs, OR=3.84 (2.42,610) 95% C.I. There was also a positive correlation between odour of vaginal discharge and knowledge on VCPs. Conclusion: The use of vaginal cleansing products was found to be associated with abnormal vaginal discharge. The findings of this study demonstrated that the use vaginal cleansing products among participants was associated with AVD. Also, those who use VCPs, use it on a daily basis. Furthermore, females in the reproductive age bracket tend to use VCPs based on vaginal odour Healthcare providers must sensitise clients on VCPs and their intended purposes as well as vaginal care practices to enable women restore, promote and maintain their reproductive health and wellness.