Prevalence and risk factors of lower genital tract infections among women in Beijing, China

Abstract

Aim: The aim of our study was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of common female lower genital tract infections (LGTIs) among married women in Beijing.

Material & methods: A community-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted among married women aged 25-54years. All subjects were interviewed, followed by gynecological examination and laboratory tests.

Results: A total of 6339 women were enrolled. The prevalence of LGTIs was 11.4%, including 8.7% bacterial vaginosis, 1.0% trichomoniasis and 1.7% candidiasis. Three factors were associated with the increased likelihood of LGTIs: age of 30-49years (odds ratio (OR), 1.39; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.046-1.840), a high number of sexual partners (OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 0.911-2.173), and failure to use a condom (OR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.434-2.065). Bacterial vaginosis was significantly associated with the incidence of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and high-risk human papillomavirus infection.

Conclusions: Improving women's living standards and knowledge regarding reproductive health issues can help decrease the incidence of LGTIs and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia.