Streptococcus mitis Chorioamnionitis after Dental Scaling and Oral Sex

Abstract

Background. Oral sex is postulated to be a risk factor for the introduction of bacteria into the amniotic cavity. Common oropharyngeal bacteria have been implicated in reports of second trimester chorioamnionitis via ascending vaginal transmission following oral sex. Dental scaling can also introduce these pathogens into the blood stream, allowing hematogenous spread of oral pathogens to the fetoplacental unit in pregnant patients. Case. We report a case of Streptococcus mitis chorioamnionitis at 21 weeks and 5 days’ gestation in a patient whose only risk factors were recent dental scaling and recent oral sex with a partner known to have periodontal disease. Conclusion. Bacterial chorioamnionitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of preterm labour. Oral sex and dental procedures may be risk factors for chorioamnionitis.