Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis and Bacterial Vaginosis among Young Adult Women (21–40 Years) at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, Harare, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Background: Chlamydia trachomatis and bacterial vaginosis are common reproductive tract infections associated with adverse reproductive health outcomes. Understanding their prevalence and distribution among young adult women is critical for effective screening and intervention. Objective: To determine the prevalence, distribution patterns, and reproductive health impact of CT and BV among women aged 21–40 years attending Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, Harare. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, enrolling 281 sexually active women aged 21–40 years. Endocervical swabs were analysed for CT using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), while vaginal swabs were evaluated for BV using Nugent scoring. Sociodemographic and behavioural data were collected via structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using SPSS v26, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Overall, 35.5% (100/281) of participants tested positive for CT, BV, or both, while 64.5% tested negative. The highest prevalence was observed in women aged 31–35 years (37.4%). Behavioural risk factors, including multiple sexual partners and inconsistent condom use, were associated with infection. Co-infection with CT and BV occurred in 20% of positive cases. Laboratory findings indicated that CT was highly sensitive to azithromycin (90%) and doxycycline (85%), whereas BV-associated bacteria were most sensitive to metronidazole (80%) and clindamycin (75%). Co-infected participants were more likely to experience adverse reproductive outcomes, including pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. Conclusion: CT and BV are prevalent among young adult women in Harare, with co-infections contributing to significant reproductive health risks. Age-specific screening, behavioural interventions, and appropriate antimicrobial therapy are essential for reducing the burden of these infections and improving reproductive health outcomes.