Tingkat Pengetahuan dan Higiene Perorangan terhadap Kandidiasis Vulvovaginalis pada Ibu Hamil di Puskesmas Tanah Jawa Kabupaten Simalungun

Abstract

Background: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is an infection of the vulva and vaginal mucosa caused by the Candida species fungus that affects millions of women every year. Vulvovaginal candidiasis can cause thick, white, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, burning sensation, and vaginal itching. Vulvovaginal candidiasis often occurs in women of childbearing age, especially in pregnant women. Knowledge and personal hygiene factors can affect the appearance of abnormal vaginal discharge. The level of knowledge and good hygiene in women can be an effort to prevent vaginal discharge that caused by vulvovaginal candidiasis. Objective: To describe the knowledge and personal hygiene behavior of pregnant women towards vulvovaginal candidiasis at the Tanah Jawa Health Center, Simalungun Regency. Methods: This research is a descriptive study with a cross- sectional study approach. Sampling in this study used a total sampling technique that involved 40 pregnant women who came to the Tanah Jawa Health Center. Data collection was done by using a questionnaire. Results: From this research, it was found that the levelof knowledge of pregnant women about vulvovaginal candidiasis is categorized into lack of knowledge (22 people, 55%), sufficient knowledge (14 people, 35%), good knowledge (4people, 10%). The hygiene behavior of pregnant women is categorized into lack of hygiene (21 people, 52.5%), sufficient hygiene (13 people, 32.5%), and good hygiene (6 people, 15%). Conclusion: The majority of the level of pregnant women’s knowledge and personal hygiene at the Tanah Jawa Health Center is in the lack level.