Frequency of Bacterial Vaginosis among Pregnant Women Experiencing Preterm Labor

Abstract

Background and Objective: Infants born prematurely are at an increased risk of experiencing cerebral palsy, respiratory problems and developmental delays. Bacterial vaginosis, a condition that causes inflammation of fetal membranes, vaginitis, and cervicitis, can lead to the premature rupture of membranes and labor. The main objective of this article is to determine the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis among pregnant women experiencing preterm labor between 20 and 36 weeks of gestation. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 cases of preterm labor. To investigate variables associated with bacterial vaginosis. Variables related to bacterial vaginosis and relevant epidemiological and clinical data were collected and analyzed. Amsel's criteria were used to diagnose bacterial vaginosis. Findings: The prevalence of BV among pregnant female with preterm labor was found to be 44 (44%). Among the BV-positive cases, 28 (63.6%) patients aged between 25 and 44 years. 56 people (56%) of those who had a negative bacterial vaginosis test had preterm delivery. A significant correlation was observed between BV and living in urban areas (p<0.05). Furthermore, BV was significantly linked with early rupture of membranes (p<0.05). Vaginal infections were also more prevalent in BV-negative cases (p<0.05). No statistically significant associations were found between BV and threatened abortion or miscarriage. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in patients with premature labor is relatively high. Bacterial vaginosis is significantly more common among patients living in urban areas and is associated with premature rupture of membranes and certain types of premature labor.

Keywords

• preterm labor
• bacterial vaginosis
• vaginitis.