Latent profile analysis of stigma and medical coping among patients with vaginitis: a cross-sectional study

Vaginitis is a common chronic condition among genital tract infections. Its sensitive anatomical location and tendency to recur not only impact individual health but also affect psychological well-being and coping strategies. This study aimed to identify latent profiles of stigma and medical coping among patients with vaginitis and to examine their associated factors, providing evidence for tailored health education.

Patients with vaginitis attending a gynecology clinic between January and March 2024 were recruited. Data were collected using the General Information Questionnaire, Social Impact Scale (SIS), Medical Coping Questionnaire (MCMQ), and Perceived Social Support Scale (PSSS). Latent profile analysis was conducted to identify subgroups based on stigma and coping patterns, and associated factors were examined using univariate analyses and multinomial logistic regression. This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and informed consent was obtained from all participants.

A total of 211 patients with vaginitis were included in this study. Their average SIS score was 52.22 ± 12.27, and their average PSSS score was 56.67 ± 12.00. Based on both stigma and medical coping strategies, three latent profiles were identified: Low Stigma-Active Coping Group (25.1%), Moderate Stigma-Conventional Coping Group (58.8%), and High Stigma-Negative Coping Group (16.1%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that, using the Low Stigma-Active Coping Group as the reference category, unemployment was a risk factor for membership in the Moderate Stigma-Conventional Coping Group (OR = 2.909) and the High Stigma-Negative Coping Group (OR = 6.266). Having a "basic understanding" of vaginitis (OR = 0.072) and higher social support (OR = 0.960) were protective factors for membership in the Moderate Stigma-Conventional Coping Group. Age < 46 years (18-24 years: OR = 0.025; 25-35 years: OR = 0.028; 36-45 years: OR = 0.026), having a "basic" or "partial" understanding of vaginitis (OR = 0.042; OR = 0.065), and perceived social support (OR = 0.889) were protective factors against membership in the High Stigma-Negative Coping Group (P < 0.05).

Patients with vaginitis exhibit heterogeneity in their experiences of stigmatization and medical coping strategies. Based on the distinct stigma and coping profiles identified in this study, healthcare professionals should implement targeted interventions. These interventions could help to reduce stigma levels and encourage positive coping strategies among patients with vaginitis. However, this study is limited by its cross-sectional design and single-center setting, and future multicenter and longitudinal studies are warranted to further validate these findings.