Abstract

Sexually transmitted diseases are a significant public health concern in Uganda, particularly among women of
reproductive age. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with STDs among women
of reproductive age at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda. A cross-sectional study was conducted
among 302 women of reproductive age attending the hospital’s outpatient department between August 2023 and
November 2023. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires. Descriptive and logistic
regression analyses were conducted to determine the prevalence and factors associated with STDs. The
prevalence of STDs among women of reproductive age attending Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital was
found to be 27.2%. Factors significantly associated with STDs included being residence outside the city (adjusted
odds ratio [aOR] 2.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21-4.38), age group 20-29 (aOR 2.42, 95% CI 1.05-5.57),
having more than 3 sexual partners (aOR 2.13, 95% CI 1.19-3.80) and not using a condom during sexual
intercourse (aOR 0.55, 95% CI 0.31-0.98). Additionally, women who reported an increased frequency of sexual
activity were more likely to have current STDs (aOR 1.88, 95% CI 1.10-3.21). The prevalence of STDs among
women of reproductive age at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital was high, and several factors were
identified as significant predictors of STDs. These findings highlight the need for targeted STD prevention and
control interventions, including increased STD screening, counselling on condom use, and promoting safe
sexual practices among women of reproductive age in the region.
Keyword: STDs, Productive age, Women, Condom, Sexual activities, Sexual partners.