Knowledge care-seeking and prevalence of reproductive tract infections in tribal women of Himachal Pradesh India.

Background: Reproductive tract infections (RTIs) are a major public health problem in developing countries. In India community based studies have shown the prevalence of RTIs as ranging from 39-84%. Objectives: To document the prevalence and knowledge attitude and practices regarding RTI in women in reproductive age group in tribal females of Himachal Pradesh India. Methods: A health camp was conducted in 2011 in a district of Himachal Pradesh. All women in their reproductive age group giving consent to participate were interviewed by a pre- designed pre-tested semi- structured interview schedule. Result: Out of the 150 respondents 13.6% of the women reported they had some symptoms of RTI at the time of visit. Only 39.3 % women had ever heard of RTIs; of these women around 60% women knew correctly that RTIs affect the genital tract and that they are mostly sexually transmitted. Regarding treatment of RTIs/STIs only 30% women said that both partners should be treated. Conclusion: The study revealed a lack of awareness regarding reproductive tract infections coupled with presence of RTIs amongst the study participants. Health education and community mobilization is needed in areas like these which are neglected due to geographical barriers and unfavourable climate.