Understanding Care-Seeking Behavior for Reproductive Tract Infections Among Afghan Women: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Women's Health

Background:

• Reproductive tract infections (RTIs) pose a significant challenge in Afghanistan.
• Reliable data on RTIs, including symptoms, risk factors, and care-seeking behaviors, is extremely scarce.
• This study addresses the data gap by examining the largest sample of women to date.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of RTI symptoms, potential risk factors, and knowledge levels among women in Afghanistan.
• To analyze care-seeking behaviors and identify factors associated with delays in seeking treatment for RTIs.
• To provide insights for improving reproductive healthcare in the region.

Main Methods:

• A structured questionnaire was administered to 601 women attending multi-specialist clinics in major Afghan cities.
• Data collected included RTI symptoms, reproductive history, hygiene practices, and sociodemographic characteristics.
• Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of delayed care-seeking and a history of RTI.

Main Results:

• 79.2% of women reported symptoms related to RTIs, while only 23.0% possessed knowledge about RTIs.
• Up to 39.5% of women experienced delays (over 1 month) in seeking care for RTI symptoms.
• Abnormal vaginal discharge, lower abdominal pain, and fever were associated with care-seeking delays; sedentary behavior and hand washing were negatively associated.

Conclusions:

• A majority of women in Afghanistan report RTI symptoms, lack knowledge, and delay seeking care.
• Healthcare providers should prioritize educating the population about RTIs and standard care pathways.
• A multi-dimensional approach, sensitive to cultural contexts, is essential for effective RTI management.