Gynecological morbidity in rural community : could anything be done?

Abstract EN

The gynecological health of women in our region needs to be addressed .

The Giza Morbidity Study undertaken by the Reproductive health working group has shown that women bear an unexpectedly high level of gynecological diseases, a level which is probably present in similar communities throughout the region.

This epidemiological evidence underlines the need for a comprehensive approach to women's reproductive health .

A number of action would contribute towards ameliorating the heavy burden of disease women silently endure and which affects their live so greatly .Based on the results of the Giza study , the reproductive health working group elaborated recommendations for policy makers and scientists, including upgrading of health services, training of providers and health education of women & men.

In light of the results and recommendations of the Giza study, the reproductive health working group implemented a research and intervention study in reproductive health in low rural communities in the Damietta Governorate.

While investigation of levels, perceptions and determinants of reproductive morbidity among women in the community were assessed, an intervention aimed at upgrading reproductive health services in the community under study took place.

Some morbidity conditions were higher than in the Giza study, others were almost similar, reflecting a heavy disease burden.

The results of the intervention phase of the study showed a marked increase in the attendance of women seeking gynecological examination by the end of the project, also an increase in compliance and satisfaction with medication delivered by health care providers.

Furthermore, women showed more satisfaction for health care providers service in general.

Finally, this research and intervention study on reproductive health in rural Damietta has shown that reproductive health could be sustained only if the health service providers maintain and continue