Determination of Genital Hygiene Behaviors and Affecting Factors of Women of Reproductive Age

Abstract

Objective: It is estimated that women worldwide have high rates of genital infections. Although not life-threatening, these infections can lead to loss of reproductive capacity if not treated early. Therefore, prevention of genital infections is of great importance. The most important, simple, easy, and cost-free method for preventing genital infections is the practice of correct genital hygiene practices. This study aimed to determine the genital hygiene behaviors of women of reproductive age and the factors that influence these practices. Method: A descriptive study was conducted between March 25 and May 25, 2023, on 108 women of reproductive age residing in the Famagusta district of North Cyprus. The data of the study were collected using the personal information form and the genital hygiene behavior scale (GHBS) prepared by the researcher. Results: Mean scores for the GHBS and its subscales of general hygiene, menstrual hygiene, and abnormal finding awareness were 74.33 +/- 26.12, 40.12 +/- 14.23, 24.27 +/- 9.43, and 9.92 +/- 3.86, respectively. The GHBS scores were higher in participants who had graduated from a university (p=0.001), earned income greater than expenses (p=0.003), and had received previous training on genital hygiene (p=0.010). These findings suggest that increasing women's awareness of the importance of maintaining genital hygiene from an early age may contribute to improvements in women's health by preventing complications. Conclusions: The findings of our study indicate that the genital hygiene behaviors of women in reproductive age are, for the most part, positive. Our analysis revealed that variables such as education level, income status, and information on genital hygiene may influence genital hygiene behaviors.