Knowledge and Attitude about Sexual Transmitted Disease among Women in Reproductive Age in Al-Nasiriyah Governorate-Iraq

Abstract

Background: Sexually transmitted diseases are group of disease primarily affecting sexually active
population and has led to a major public health problem in the reproductive age group (15-45 years), which
are largely acquired through sexual act or close contact with genitals leading to potentially devastating
effects.
Objectives: To assess knowledge and attitude about sexual transmitted disease among women in reproductive
age in Al-Nasiriyah governorate-Iraq.
Methods: Cross sectional study design based on community was conducted in in Al-Nasiriyah governorate
in Iraq on women at reproductive age. Data collected by predesigned and pretested instrument through face
to face interview.
Results: In general literates women were more aware about STDs compared to illiterates. A total of 180
women at reproductive age were recorded, of which 325(64%) regard blood transfusion as major method
of STD transmission and 206(40%) Through the open wound of the genitals. 384 (68.3%) women told
that vaginal discharge is common symptom, followed by Genital and mouth ulcers 194(34.5%). 310(61%)
women regard diagnosis of STD done by blood test.396(78%) opined abortion common complication
followed by 287(55%) infertility. 404(71%) opined that STDs can be prevented by abstinence from sex and
343(61%) it cannot be prevented.
Conclusions: Based on the results of the study, women’s knowledge about sexual transmitted diseases
that transmitted during sex is very low, so special programs must be provided for women that can increase
knowledge of women and awareness of sexually transmitted diseases in Iraq and published on television and
radio. As knowledge and awareness of diseases promote with education, special educational programs are
also effective for education of women in Iraq about STD.