Factors Associated with Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Among Female Students in Gauteng, South Africa: Implications for Universal Health Coverage

Moreoagae Bertha Randa; Jacobeth Mmabyala Malesela

doi:10.25159/2520-5293/21044

Authors

Moreoagae Bertha Randa Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0067-289X
Jackie Malesela Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1219-3220

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2520-5293/21044

Keywords:

epidemiology, health behaviours, reproductive health, university students, vulvovaginal candidiasis

Abstract

Background: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is one of the most common fungal infections affecting women of reproductive age worldwide and is associated with considerable discomfort, recurrent infections and reduced quality of life. Young women, particularly university students, may be at increased risk due to behavioural, environmental and lifestyle factors. This study examined risk factors for VVC among female students attending a Gauteng province university health clinic.

Method: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 90 female students, predominantly aged 18–22 years, who presented with symptoms of VVC at a university health clinic in Gauteng, South Africa. Data on clinical, behavioural and demographic characteristics were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods.

Results: The findings indicated a high prevalence of recurrent VVC, especially among sexually active single women, with hygiene practices and recent partner changes being significant factors.

Conclusion: These findings provide evidence to inform targeted reproductive health education and improved access to youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services, which are essential components of strategies aimed at advancing Universal Health Coverage.

Author Biographies

Moreoagae Bertha Randa, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University

Dr Moreoagae Bertha Randa is a public health and nursing science academic and researcher. Her work focuses on public health, sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, and health systems strengthening, with scholarly contributions addressing issues such as HIV prevention, community health, and health system performance. She has been involved in research and academic development initiatives, including postgraduate supervision and interdisciplinary projects aimed at improving health outcomes in vulnerable populations. She is currently affiliated with the Department of Public Health in the School of Health Care Sciences at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria.

Jackie Malesela, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University

Dr JML Malesela is an advanced midwifery lecturer. Her research focuses on nursing, community health nursing, health professions, and public hospitals, with recent publications on topics like management of resources during the COVID-19 pandemic and professional nurses' perceptions regarding programs like the Perinatal Problem Identification Programme. She is currently affiliated with the Department of Public Health in the School of Health Care Sciences at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria.

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