Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Primary Care Physicians Regarding Vaginal Discharge Management in Alahsa,...

Vaginal discharge is one of the most common gynecological complaints among women of reproductive age. Its effective management depends on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of primary health care physicians. In regions such as Alahsa, Saudi Arabia, assessing physician competence is essential to improve patient outcomes and address cultural and systemic barriers to care.

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 among 233 primary health care physicians in Alahsa. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected through a structured self-administered questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge of vaginal discharge etiologies and treatments, attitudes toward clinical management, and diagnostic and treatment behaviors. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate regression using SPSS.

A total of 210 (90.1%) of participants demonstrated good knowledge, particularly regarding common etiologies and first-line treatments for bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, and trichomoniasis. However, diagnostic knowledge was more limited; only 96 (41.2%) correctly identified saline wet mount as a diagnostic tool for Trichomonas vaginalis. Attitudes were generally favorable, with strong support for guideline adherence and patient education. Marital status and professional level were significantly associated with knowledge levels (p < 0.05), while other sociodemographic factors were not. Clinical practices varied considerably, with limited use of physical examinations and diagnostic testing, often attributed to resource constraints or cultural sensitivities.

Primary health care physicians in Alahsa exhibit good knowledge and positive attitudes regarding the management of vaginal discharge. However, inconsistencies in clinical practice, particularly in diagnostic approaches, highlight the need for targeted training and improved diagnostic accessibility to enhance the quality of care.