Implementing point-of-care tests to optimize antibiotic use for vaginal discharge: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial in Nepal.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Vaginal discharge (VD) is a common health concern among women of reproductive age worldwide. In low- and lower-middle-income countries (LLMICs), one in four women experiences distressing VD which may indicate underlying infections. About one-third of these cases are caused by one of three curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs)-Chlamydia trachomatis [Ct], Neisseria gonorrhea [Ng], Trichomonas vaginalis [Tv]-or by bacterial vaginosis (BV). Syndromic management, the standard approach to care in LLMICs, relies on empirical antibiotic treatment, often resulting in overtreatment and contributing to antimicrobial resistance. To reduce unnecessary use of antibiotics, affordable, accurate, and rapid diagnostic tests such as point-of-care tests (POCTs) are needed-particula

SUBMITTER: Shrestha S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12817586 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature