Knowledge about Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Reproductive Health Clinic Attendants in Ghana

Sedinam  Atupra; Titus Beyuo; Emma  Lawrence

doi:10.46829/hsijournal.2021.2.2.230-237

Sedinam AA Atupra Department of Medicine, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
Titus Beyuo Department of Medicine, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
Emma R Lawrence Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA

DOI: https://doi.org/10.46829/hsijournal.2021.2.2.230-237

Keywords: sexually transmitted infection, reproductive health, sexual health, Ghana

Abstract

Background: Prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are important to reduce associated morbidity and mortality. Awareness and knowledge about STIs promote healthy reproductive health behaviors.

Objective: This study assessed the knowledge about STIs and their prevention among sexual and reproductive health clinic attendants.

Methods: A survey was administered to attendants at two reproductive health clinics in Ghana. Questions included demographics, utilization of reproductive services, knowledge about STIs, and personal behaviors regarding STI prevention. A STI Knowledge Score was created by summing correct responses to thirty-three factual questions on STI transmission, prevention, and symptoms.

Results: Of 155 participants, 85.8% reported any knowledge about STIs, and 56.8% had been educated about STIs by the sexual and reproductive health clinic. Initial education about STIs was most commonly encountered at school (56.3%). The majority of participants correctly identified gonorrhea (87.1%), syphilis (65.8%), and HIV (94.8%) as STIs, however, less than half correctly identified chlamydia (46.5%) and hepatitis B (45.2%). Regarding knowledge of transmission, 93.5% knew that STIs are transmitted through unprotected intercourse, however 36.1% incorrectly believed that STIs could be spread by sharing cups and spoons. The majority (90.2%) correctly identified condoms as a method of STI prevention. On a 33-point STI Knowledge Score, participants had a mean of 21 (+/- 1.2); 21.2% had “poor” knowledge, 50.4% had “satisfactory” knowledge and 28.4% had “excellent” knowledge. Overall, 79% of participants felt that they were prepared to share information about STIs with others. A higher level of knowledge was associated with a greater preparedness to share.

Conclusions: Attendants of sexual and reproductive health clinics have a high general knowledge about STIs, however important knowledge gaps exist. We highlight the importance of sexual and reproductive health clinics providing comprehensive STI counseling.