Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026
10:19
A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization
Published on: November 16, 2016
Analysis of Microbial Colonization, Including Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria, in High-Risk Pregnant Women
Anh Le1,2, Maria Emilia Solano3, Maurice Kappelmeyer1,3
1University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinic St. Hedwig of The Order of St. John, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
Women'S Health Reports (New Rochelle, N.Y.)
|August 7, 2026
Summary
Maternal microbial colonization, including multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria, showed no significant association with pregnancy complications. Perianal screening alongside vaginal swabs did not improve detection of complications, suggesting general screening is not recommended.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Preterm birth (PTB) is a major cause of neonatal morbidity, with intrauterine infections contributing to at least 40% of cases.
- Rising multidrug resistance (MDR) in bacteria, particularly gram-negative types, necessitates early detection of colonization and risk factors.
- Understanding maternal microbial colonization during pregnancy is crucial for preventing adverse outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the association between maternal microbial colonization and prenatal pregnancy-related complications.
- To investigate the prevalence of multidrug-resistant gram-negative (MRGN) bacteria in high-risk pregnant women.
- To evaluate the impact of combined vaginal and perianal screening on complication detection.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective cohort study of 596 high-risk pregnant women admitted between February 2016 and April 2018.
- Samples from skin, perianal area, and vagina were cultured and categorized.
- Statistical analysis using the chi-square test was performed, with p-values <0.05 considered significant.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of MRGN was low (2%) across all subgroups (non-infection-related, infection-related, cervical-insufficient).
- Pathogenic gram-negative bacteria were more prevalent in the perianal area (p < 0.05).
- No statistically significant association was found between microbial colonization and prenatal pregnancy-related complications.
Conclusions:
- General screening, including perianal swabs, is not recommended due to lack of significant findings.
- Combined vaginal and perianal screening did not enhance the detection of pathogenic microorganisms or predict complications.
- Further research is required to identify additional risk factors for adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes.
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