An epidemiological study on vaginitis in 6,150 women of reproductive age in Shanghai

The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors for vaginitis, the proportion of pathogens, and cognition of reproductive age patients on the harmful effects of vaginitis, its risk factors, and treatment. This retrospective study enrolled 6,150 patients admitted to the Shanghai Jinshan Central Hospital from 2011 to 2015 with a chief complaint of abnormal vaginal discharge. A questionnaire was designed to survey the cognition of patients on the harmful effects of vaginitis. Routine gynecological examinations and laboratory tests were performed and the risk factors for contracting vaginitis were analyzed by multifactor logistic regression analysis. The positive pathogen rate was 65.63% (4,036/6,150). Trichomonas infections were diagnosed in 1,416 (35.08%) cases including 761 (18.86%) cases of single trichomonas infections, which was significantly higher than the proportion of any other single pathogen infection (P<0.05). From 2011 to 2015, trichomoniasis and chlamydia infections decreased, but bacteria, candida and mycoplasma infections increased. The questionnaire survey showed a low cognition level on iatrogenic and mother-to-child transmission of vaginal infections as well as the risk of ectopic pregnancy and infertility, and on how to prevent vaginal infections. Logistic multifactor regression analysis revealed that advanced age, a low educational level, farmers, childbearing history and a low income were the risk factors for vaginitis. Women of reproductive age showed a high rate of vaginal infections and more attention should be paid to women with a low education level and income to reduce the incidence of vaginal infections in this population.