Spousal Communication on Reproductive Tract Infections Among Reproductive Aged Women Attending Reproductive Health Unit in Thika Level 5 Hospital, Kenya

Globally, reproductive tract infections (RTIs) are a public health concern among men and women. Promoting efficient spousal communication facilitates joint decision-making and responsibilities on reproductive health issues. In Thika Sub-County, Kenya, there was a paucity of knowledge regarding spousal communication on RTIs. This study aimed to determine factors influencing spousal communication on RTIs among reproductive women attending the Reproductive Health Unit in Thika Level 5 Hospital. This study utilized a cross-sectional study design using quantitative methods. A sample size of 422 married women between 18 and 49 years old was enrolled in this study. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Univariate, multivariate, Chi square, and Fisher’s exact analyses were used to compute the association between independent and dependent variables. A p value less than 0.05 was used as the level of significance. Approximately 48.1% of the married women communicated with their spouses on RTIs. The univariate analysis noted that residing in an urban area and having secondary and tertiary levels of education were significantly associated with verbal spousal communication on RTIs. Besides, residing in an urban area and having a tertiary level of education were significant independent factors influencing verbal communication on RTIs. There was also a significant relationship between knowledge, sex abstinence, use of condoms, and seeking treatment for RTIs with spousal communication. Personal verbal communication pattern on RTIs was largely utilized by the respondents, followed by intuitive, analytical, and functional communication patterns. The spousal communication patterns on RTIs were significantly associated with the level of education and residence of the respondents. This study concluded that married women had limited spousal communication on RTIs. The study recommends that encouraging candid and efficient communication between couples can help spouses express their anxieties and concerns related to reproductive health. This guarantees cooperation when pursuing treatment and planning preventive actions