Date of Publication

8-2025

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Medical Biology

Subject Categories

Medicine and Health Sciences | Women's Health

College

College of Science

Department/Unit

Biology

Thesis Advisor

Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco

Defense Panel Chair

Florabelle D. Querubin

Defense Panel Member

Gerard Anthony M. Espiritu
Van Jerwin P. Mercado
Leo Agustin F. Barcelo

Abstract (English)

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a gynecological condition that affects women all over the world. However, previous knowledge highlighted the diversity of correlates in BV between different populations. As contextualized research of BV in the Philippines is greatly limited, this research determines indicators that are associated with bacterial vaginosis among women who visited a clinic in Naic, Cavite. A total of 595 slides were examined under gram-staining and 557 passed quality control. The participants, with an age range of 21-70, were screened through Nugent Scoring. The study utilized a retrospective cross-sectional design that aimed to analyze and identify relationships between the variables of interest and BV within the study population. Purposive sampling was chosen as participants were conveniently selected in the Likhaan Center for Women’s Health in Cavite, in collaboration with the investigators of the previous DEFEAT-HPV Study. Vaginal smear samples were obtained through the collection of cervical and vaginal swabs by a licensed physician. Each slide was Gram-stained onto a slide for the differentiation of multiple bacterial morphotypes, such as Gardnerella, Lactobacillus, and Mobiluncus. Results showed that the proportion of BV comprised 16.6% of the sample population. Among the sociodemographic indicators investigated, age and employment status were found to be significantly associated with BV. Older age (aOR: 1.033; 95% CI: 1.004-1.062) was revealed to lead to increased odds. Similarly, having either part-time work (aOR: 3.495; 95% CI: 1.075-11.367) or being unemployed (aOR: 2.634; 95% CI: 6.699) resulted in BV odds rising, with the former having a greater effect. Other indicators under the category did not show any evidence of statistical significance. For general behavioral factors, when compared to current drinkers, the discontinued consumption of alcoholic beverages decreased the odds of BV, indicating a protective effect. However, all reproductive indicators lacked statistical evidence for association with BV. In conclusion, the resulting associated factors in this study only encompassed a few of what had been communicated worldwide. This further confirms the observed variability in factors that characterize BV-positive individuals. As such, this study provides foundational knowledge regarding BV in rural settings in the Philippines. These findings may be used to improve the treatment and management of BV in the country. Given the study outcomes, future studies investigating BV in other local communities are recommended. The integration of multiple diagnostic rules, like Amsel’s Criteria, to validate and support the results from Nugent Scoring.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Vagina—Diseases--Philippines; Women—Health and hygiene--Philippines

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Embargo Period

8-18-2025

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