Predictors and prevalence of self-reported sexually transmitted infections among pregnant women in East Africa: evidenced by demographic and health surveys

Sexually transmitted infections are a global public health issue, especially in developing nations. They significantly contribute to population morbidity and mortality rates. Among pregnant women STIs increases the risk of health complications in both the mother and fetus. There is limited up-to-date evidence on the prevalence and determinants of self-reported sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among pregnant women in East Africa. This study aims to assess both the prevalence and key predictors of STIs in this population. The results will support policymakers and stakeholders in developing targeted interventions and serve as a foundation for future research. The data were obtained from the individual records of 11,157 pregnant women in the Demographic and Health Surveys of ten East African countries. Bivariable analysis identified factors for multivariable analysis, with variables having p < 0.05 considered significant predictors of STIs. Finally, the percentage, odd ratio and 95% confidence intervals were reported. The prevalence of self-reported sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among pregnant women was 4.97%, (95% CI: 4.57–5.38). Several factors were associated with an increased risk of self-reported sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Women aged 25–29 years were more likely to report STIs compared to those aged 15–19 years [AOR = 1.57, 95% CI (1.08–2.27); P = 0.016]. Women living with a partner [AOR = 2.09, 95% CI (1.73–2.53); P < 0.001] and those who were widowed, divorced, or separated [AOR = 1.68, 95% CI (1.17–2.42); P = 0.005] had higher odds of reporting STIs compared to married women. Similarly, women in higher wealth categories specifically those classified as “richer” [AOR = 1.51, 95% CI (1.15–1.98); P = 0.003] and “richest” [AOR = 1.37, 95% CI (1.02–1.83); P = 0.032] were more likely to report STIs compared to those in the “poorest” category. Furthermore, women who listened to the radio at least once a week [AOR = 1.77, 95% CI (1.44–2.17); P = 0.001] were at higher risk compared to those who never listened to the radio. In addition, women with a history of pregnancy termination [AOR = 1.41, 95% CI (1.14–1.74); P = 0.001] had greater odds of reporting STIs compared to those without a history of pregnancy termination. This study found that five out of hundred pregnant women in East Africa had sexually transmitted infections, influenced by predictors like age, marital status, wealth, media exposure and a history of pregnancy termination. Therefore, the health care providers and police makers should focus on the specific predictors of STIs, such as age, marital status, wealth, media exposure and a history of pregnancy termination, to reduce STIs among pregnant women. This study’s strengths, include a standardized DHS design and a large, representative sample from ten East Africa countries. However, limitations such as recall bias, the cross-sectional study design, and reliance on self-reported STIs without laboratory confirmation may introduce reporting bias.