PERCEPTION AND ACCEPTABILITY OF TRANSVAGINAL ULTRASOUND SCAN (TVS) AMONG WOMEN ATTENDING GYNAECOLOGICAL CLINIC IN UDUTH, SOKOTO

Abstract Background: Transvaginal ultrasonographic scan (TVS) remains an essential tool in gynecologic practice, with superior visualisation of the pelvic organs compared with transabdominal ultrasonography. However, privacy concerns, cultural beliefs, and sometimes misconceptions may affect the perception of women and, by extension, their acceptance of the procedure. Therefore, this study examined how women visiting a gynaecological clinic in Sokoto, Northern Nigeria, perceived and accepted TVS. Methodology: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto, among female patients seeking gynaecological care. The respondents' information was collected using a structured questionnaire administered by an interviewer. SPSS version 20 was used to analyse the data. Results: The study included 404 women, with a mean age of 26 years (SD = 9.6). More than half of 182 (54.3%) expressed a desire for TVS. 108 (57.3%) people thought TVS was safe. 80 people (42.6%) said that TVS has some negative consequences. 188 people (56.1%) acknowledged using TVS. More than 80% (275; 82.1%) stated that they would prefer a female HCW to perform TVS for them, and more than 90% (320; 95.5%) would insist that a chaperone be present during the procedure. Conclusion: In Sokoto, most women are willing to adopt TVS and prefer female healthcare professionals. Most women believed TVS was safe, but only a modest number actually used it. We urge ongoing health education for women on the benefits and safety of TVS in the treatment of most gynecological disorders.