Knowledge of Uterine Prolapse and its Sociodemographic Pattern Among Women in Rivers State, Nigeria
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Uterine prolapse can affect physical and psychosocial health, yet community knowledge in Nigeria is poorly documented. Objective: To assess knowledge of uterine prolapse and its association with sociodemographic characteristics among women in Rivers State, Nigeria. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in 27 communities across the three senatorial districts. Of 500 questionnaires administered, 384 completed responses were analysed. Participants were selected through multistage sampling. Knowledge was assessed with 15 four-point agreement items and converted to a 0–100 score. Scores were classified as poor (<60%), moderate (60–79%), or good (≥80%) using study-defined thresholds. Frequencies, percentages, and Pearson’s chi-square tests were used; statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: Poor knowledge was found in 177 respondents (46.1%), moderate knowledge in 95 (24.7%), and good knowledge in 112 (29.2%). The mean transformed score was 57.05% (SD 32.83). The prolapse recognition item had the highest endorsement (72.9%), while the item on receiving adequate information had the lowest (43.2%). A total of 48.4% endorsed the statement that prolapse is not caused by witchcraft or spiritual attacks, and 53.9% endorsed the item about pelvic-floor exercise as prevention. Knowledge category was associated with age, marital status, education, occupation, and number of children (all p<0.001). Conclusion: Knowledge of uterine prolapse was uneven. Community education can address information needs, misconceptions, and understanding of prevention and care.
Source: IPS Journal of Public Health
DOI: 10.54117/qpykv737
Institution: Rivers State University
Language: English
Subfield: Urology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7225419804