Onchocerciasis and Pregnancy

Abstract

Onchocerciasis is best known for its effect of blindness. This study suggests that it may also affect the female reproductive system. This study investigates the Yoruba beliefs of 400 Nigerian women ages 15-49 who claim the disease affects their reproductive health. 35.4% were found to have oncherciasis; the greater % of cases (40.5%) in the 35-49 age group. Itching blurred vision and skin changes topped the list of problems caused by this parasitic disease. But 56% of the women believed it also affected menstruation certainty increasing with age. 43% noted darkening menses; 36% reported loss of menstruation; 32% had menstrual irregularity; and 8% suffered menstrual pain. Many of the Yoruba women visualized the disease in the form of insects they claim inhabit the bodies of most people. The Yoruba women believe that the Kokoro can enter the uterus and wreak havoc with the menstrual cycle. Although folk tales and cultural beliefs do not constitute scientific data the author stresses it may help in understanding local disease perception and in developing culturally relevant health programs. Until now onchocerciasis research has focues on its effect on vision. This study presents a challenge to look at other indications of onchocerciasis particularly in the female reproductive system.