Morbidity Profile of Women of Reproductive Age Group in an Urban Slum

Background: Morbidity problems in women of reproductive age need to be studied extensively for effective strategies to improve their health.

Objectives:

1. To study prevalence of morbidity in women of reproductive age group

2. To study various factors influencing health of women in reproductive age group.

Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out among women of reproductive age group 15-44 years from November 2005 to October 2006 in an urban slum. Sample size of 203 was calculated and systematic random sampling was done. Haemoglobin estimation was done by Sahli's method. Statistical analysis included percentages, mean and standard deviation, and chi-square test.

Results: Prevalence of general morbidity was 31.03% consisting of mainly dental caries in 6.40% and body aches in 5.91%.

Prevalence of gynaecological morbidity was 52.22% comprising mainly menstrual problems in 41.38% and white discharge in 12.81%. 59.61% of women were anaemic.

Education and anaemia were significantly associated with general morbidity. Association between anaemia and gynaecological morbidity was significant.

Interpretation&Conclusions: Prevalence of gynaecological morbidity and anaemia are high and need to be addressed. More emphasis should be placed on Iron and folic acid supplementation in order to prevent anaemia.