EARLY ONSET OF PILES AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH CHALLENGES AMONG YOUNG WOMEN AND IMPLICATIONS FOR MATERNAL HEALTH IN OWERRI MUNICIPA, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the early onset of piles and selected reproductive health challenges among young women in Owerri Municipal and their implications for maternal health. A quantitative cross sectional survey design was adopted, using a structured five point Likert scale questionnaire for data collection. A sample of 384 respondents was selected through multistage sampling, although 352 properly completed questionnaires were valid for analysis. Data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations and chi square tests at the 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed relatively high awareness of piles, although professional healthcare seeking for related symptoms was comparatively lower. The study also identified reproductive and menstrual health concerns, with embarrassment, fear and self treatment influencing healthcare seeking. Chi square results showed significant associations between early experience of piles and reproductive health challenges, awareness and healthcare seeking behaviour, and perceived maternal health implications. The study concludes that piles should not be considered a direct cause of reproductive disorders, but persistent health concerns require early recognition and appropriate care.