Prevalence and Risk Factors of Trichomoniasis among Patients Attending Two Specialist Hospitals, Katsina State, Nigeria

Abstract

Trichomoniasis, caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, is the most common protozoan sexually transmitted infection worldwide, but data from Katsina State, Nigeria, remain limited. This study determined the prevalence, risk factors, and distribution of trichomoniasis among patients attending two specialist hospitals in the state. A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2024 among 400 patients attending the National Obstetric Fistula Centre, Babbar Ruga (n = 150) and Turai Yar’adua Maternity and Children Hospital (n = 250). Urine and high vaginal swab samples were examined by wet mount microscopy and Giemsa staining. Data were analyzed using Chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests and Firth’s penalised logistic regression. Overall prevalence was 26.3% (105/400), with no significant difference between hospitals (p = 0.747). Prevalence was higher in females than males (31.7% vs 12.4%) and highest among those aged 24–33 years (42.9%). Among positive cases, 86.7% were female and 89.5% were aged 24–33 years. Female sex (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.45, p = 0.007), water-only douching (aOR = 41.2, p < 0.001), untreated partner (aOR = 153.9, p < 0.001), and shared pit latrine use (aOR = 192.8, p < 0.001) were independently associated with infection, while older age groups had lower odds. Trichomoniasis was highly prevalent at both hospitals, concentrated among young women, and associated with untreated partners and douching. Routine laboratory screening, simultaneous partner treatment, and education on vaginal douching should be considered.