Pattern of Cervical Cytology among Hormonal Contraceptive Users and Non-Users in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
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Abstract
Background: Cervical cancer remains a major public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study assessed the prevalence and pattern of abnormal cervical smear results among hormonal contraceptive users and non-users attending the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Nigeria.
Methods: This cross-sectional analytic study was conducted at the Family Planning and Gynaecology/Cancer Screening Clinics of UPTH over 14 weeks. A total of 200 women were recruited, comprising 100 hormonal contraceptive users and 100 age- and parity-matched non-users. Hormonal contraceptive users were selected using systematic random sampling, while non-users were recruited from gynaecology and screening clinics. Following informed consent, Pap smears were reported according to the Bethesda 2014 classification. Data were analysed using SPSS version 23.0, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: Participants were aged 25–56 years, with a mean age of 39.34 years. Most participants were aged 36–45 years (52.5%) and multiparous (71%). Socio-demographic characteristics were comparable between groups. The prevalence of abnormal cervical cytology was 2.0% in both user and non-users with inflammatory changes (1.0%), LSIL (0.5%), and HSIL (0.5%) being the observed patterns. There is no statistical difference in the prevalence and pattern of cervical cytology between users and non-users of contraceptives.
Conclusion: This study shows very low prevalence of abnormal cervical smears among hormonal contraceptive users and non-users at UPTH. There is no significant association between hormonal contraceptive use and cervical abnormalities. The findings support the integration of cervical cancer screening into routine reproductive health services.
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