Psychosocial determinants of self-reported sexually transmitted infections and its symptoms in women of Pakistan (secondary analysis of pdhs 2012-13)

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to identify some of the psychosocial correlates of selfreported sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and its symptoms among married women of Pakistan. A secondary analysis on data of Pakistan Demographic Health Survey (PDHS, 2012-13) was conducted. The sample for this secondary analysis comprised of (N=3670) ever-married women with age range of 15-49 years and who completed domestic violence module and main PDHS 2012-13 survey. Bivariate (chisquare) and multivariate (binary logistic regression) analysis was conducted to determine the association of psychosocial factors with STIs and its symptoms in women. The rates of STIs in this sample were 2.3% and its symptoms were reported by approximately 20% of women. Multivariate analysis suggests that women in middle age group (25-39 years), husband’s indulgence in drinking alcohol, women’s acceptable attitude and experience of intimate partner violence, using traditional contraceptive method and social hindrances (i.e. getting permission, getting money, distance to the health facility, not wanting to go alone, management of transport) are the risk factors in determining STIs and its symptoms among women in Pakistan. Women’s knowledge regarding STIs, its symptoms and knowledge about modern contraceptive contributes positively as these women are more likely to report STIs and its symptoms. The study findings suggests that it is important to address these factors in upcoming healthcare policies and women’s health programs in Pakistan to improve women health.