Women's Health World Conference 2026

Abstract

Background: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is commonly associated with younger women of reproductive age, with comparatively limited attention given to perimenopausal women.

Aim: This study assessed the prevalence, symptoms, risk factors, awareness, and health-seeking behaviours related to PID among reproductive-aged and perimenopausal women in Delta State, Nigeria.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the study. A total of 400 women aged 20–55 years were recruited from healthcare centres, markets, religious institutions, and community gatherings using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: The overall prevalence of PID among respondents was 60.0%, with a significantly higher prevalence among perimenopausal women (75.0%) compared with reproductive-aged women (45.0%) (Z = −6.12, p < 0.001). Symptoms significantly associated with PID included irregular menstruation (t = 16.31), pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) (t = 14.82), pelvic pain (t = 15.10), frequent urination (t = 11.22), and difficulty conceiving (t = 13.40) (p < 0.001). Factors significantly associated with PID included previous sexually transmitted infections, use of intrauterine devices, multiple sexual partners, history of abortion, and ectopic pregnancy (p < 0.01). Women in polygamous marriages had higher odds of PID compared with women in monogamous marriages (OR = 2.95, p < 0.001). Significant associations were also observed between health-seeking behaviours and PID diagnosis (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: PID was more prevalent among perimenopausal women than reproductive-aged women. Significant associations were observed between PID diagnosis and reproductive health history, reported symptoms, marital type, and health-seeking behaviours. The findings highlight the need for improved reproductive health education, early screening, and targeted preventive interventions among women in both reproductive and perimenopausal age groups