Abstract :
Introduction: Increased vaginal discharge in pregnant women in many instances is not pathological.
Vulvovaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV), candidiasis or trichomoniasis can result in abnormal
vaginal discharge. Bacterial Vaginosis is diagnosed more frequently in women with established preterm
labor (PTL) or delivery and with preterm rupture of membranes. Adverse pregnancy outcomes such as
spontaneous abortion, PTL, premature delivery, preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM),
amniotic fluid infection, postpartum endometritis, and post-cesarean wound infections have been reported.
Materials and Methods: We conducted this study to determine the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in
246 pregnant women and its association with adverse perinatal outcomes. Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis
in pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic was studied using Nugent’s scoring system. Perinatal
outcomes were also assessed.
Results: The prevalence of bacterial vaginosis was maximum in the age group 21-25 years (46.43%),
followed by 26-30 years (25%). The association of perinatal outcome and bacterial vaginosis among
patients showed that PROM, LBW and IUGR infant had more bacterial vaginosis with a statistically
significant association with bacterial vaginosis (P).
Conclusion: Bacterial vaginosis is a major public health problem prevalent in pregnant women and
associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. Research should continue to evaluate the risks and benefits
of medications to the mother and fetus. More focus needs to be placed on the prevention of preterm labor
and premature rupture of membranes rather than the treatment of preterm labor once it occurs.
Keyword :
Bacterial vaginosis, Pregnancy, Perinatal outcome.