Occurrence and Associated Factors Predisposing to Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Among Female Students in A Private University, Nigeria
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) remains one of the most prevalent fungal infections affecting women of reproductive age worldwide, with a particularly high burden in low- and middle-income settings. Despite its frequency, VVC is often underreported and inadequately studied among university populations, where lifestyle, behavioral, and physiological factors may increase vulnerability. This study investigates the occurrence and associated factors predisposing to VVC among female students in a private university in Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed, combining self-administered questionnaires with laboratory confirmation of Candida species from vaginal swabs. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to establish prevalence and associations. Findings indicate a substantial prevalence of VVC among participants, with Candida albicans remaining the dominant species isolated, though non-albicans strains were also detected. Significant predisposing factors identified included frequent antibiotic use, poor personal hygiene practices, use of tight synthetic clothing, and hormonal fluctuations related to contraceptive use or menstrual cycles. Additional associations were observed with high stress levels, self-medication, and limited awareness of reproductive health. Socio-demographic variables such as age and socioeconomic background were not as strongly predictive, suggesting that behavioral and medical factors exert greater influence on susceptibility. The implications of these findings highlight the need for targeted health education, improved screening, and preventive strategies within university health systems. Strengthening reproductive health awareness programs, discouraging indiscriminate antibiotic use, and promoting hygienic practices could reduce the burden of VVC among young women. This study underscores the necessity of proactive institutional health policies and further multi-center research to generate comprehensive epidemiological data on VVC in Nigerian universities. By addressing modifiable risk factors, the health, academic performance, and overall well-being of female students can be significantly enhanced.
Keywords
Occurrence, Associated Factors, Vulvovaginal Candidiasis, Candida Albicans, Female Students, Private University, Nigeria, Reproductive Health
Citations
IRE Journals:
Olaitan Kemi Atobatele "Occurrence and Associated Factors Predisposing to Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Among Female Students in A Private University, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 2 Issue 4 2018 Page 146-159
IEEE:
Olaitan Kemi Atobatele
"Occurrence and Associated Factors Predisposing to Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Among Female Students in A Private University, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 2(4)
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