Prevalence of Bacterial Vaginosis amongst Female Students of the University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State

Introduction: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is one of the most prevalent vaginal infections among women in Africa and is caused by several behavioral, hormonal and sexual factors.

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of BV among female students of the University of Calabar and to make recommendation on modifiable risk factors based on administered questionnaires.

Materials and Methods: One hundred and fifty high vaginal swab (HVS) samples were collected from female students of the University of Calabar following informed consent. Samples collection and microbiological processing were done using standard techniques. BV was analysed using Amsel’s and Nugent’s criteria. Open ended questionnaires were administered to the respondents to obtain information about their sociodemographic factors and risk factors to BV. Simple descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data collected and these were done using Microsoft Excel 2007.

Results: Twenty three percent (35) of female students were identified as BV positive with Amsel’s Criteria while twenty-seven percent (41) were positive for BV using Nugent’s criteria. Age range of 21-25 years had the highest prevalence rate of BV of 16 (45.70%). Prevalent microbial isolates were Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Candida species in descending order.

Conclusion: This study reveals that Nugent’s Criteria have a higher positive predictive value (PPV) than Amsel’s criteria in the diagnosis of BV. Furthermore, the data obtained suggests that the prevalence rate of BV is relatively high and thus suggest the need for a comprehensive health care education program aimed at reducing BV prevalence.