Abstract
BACKGROUND: Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae are the most common pathogens causing genital tract infections. Female commercial sex workers (FCSWs) are the key population to be affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In Ethiopia, little is known about C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae infections in most at risk population. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of these bacterial STIs among FCSWs. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the confidential clinic in Hawassa City, Southern Ethiopia from January to April, 2017. A total of 338 FCSWs were selected using systematic random sampling technique and enrolled in the study. Information about socio-demography and associated factors was collected using structured questionnaires. Endocervical swab samples were also collected from the study participants and tested for C. trachomatis using rapid immunochromatography assay. Samples were also cultured to isolate N. gonorrhoeae according to the standard bacteriological method. RESULTS: The prevalence of N. gonorrhoeae and C. trachomatis among FCSWs was 3.3% [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.5-5.3] and 6.8% (95% CI: 3.9-9.5), respectively. FCSWs who consistently practiced sex without condom in the last 6 months had 6.3 times (AOR 6.3; 95% CI 1.61-24.86, P = 0.008), and 4.0 times (AOR 4.0; 95% CI 1.06-15.31, p = 0.040) higher odds of acquiring N. gonorrhoeae and C. trachomatis infections, respectively. CONCLUSION: The observed rates of C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae infections among FCSWs warrant the need to strengthen intervention efforts. In this regard, screening FCSWs for the specified infections and improving the practice of condom use would be important.