Abstract:
Information on socio demographic characteristics, menstrual and obstetrics histories,
contraceptive use, sexual behavior, gynecological symptoms, impact of gynecological
symptoms on women's day-to day life and health seeking behavior was collected using an
interviewer administered, pre coded, structured questionnaire. Complete clinical
examination was carried out including a gynecological examination and laboratory
investigations to detect RTIs, cervical cell abnormalities, syphilis, random blood sugar and
haemoglobin levels. Focus group discussions, in-depth interviews and key informant
interviews were used to gather information on perceptions, consequences and healthcare
seeking behavior related to gynecological morbidity. The participation rate was high (95.5
percent ). The prevalence of self reported gynecological symptoms was 62.4 percent (95
percent CI 59.7-65.1). The most common gynecological problem was pre menstrual
syndrome (62.4 percent 95 present C.I. 59.4-66.1), followed by problems related to
menstrual bleeding (43.1 percent , 95 percent C.I. 38.9-46.6). The prevalence of
dysmenorrheal was 33.4 percent (95 present C.I. 30.2-36.7). Multivariate logistic regression
models revealed statistically significant associations of irregular periods with living in the
estate sector (p 23 kg/m2 (OR= 1.37) and living in estate or urban sector were significantly
associated with utero-vaginal prolapse in multivariate analysis. percent The prevalence of
dysparaunia was 12.4 percent (95 C.I. 10.6-14.5) arid in multivariate analysis, presence of
utero-vaginal prolapse (OR=3.74), history of instrumental delivery (OR=1.99), being a
young woman (age less than 35 years) (OR=1.81) and low standard of living index
(OR=2.27) were significant predictors of dysparaunia
