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Bacterial vaginosis and preterm birth: a comprehensive review of the literature

D M Paige1, M Augustyn, W K Adih

  • 1Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Hygiene and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.

Journal of Nurse-Midwifery
|May 15, 1998
PubMed

Insights

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a significant risk factor for preterm birth and low birth weight (LBW), particularly in pregnant Black women. Treating BV can effectively reduce these adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Maternal-Fetal Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy

Background:

  • Preterm low birth weight (LBW) is a leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality.
  • Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
  • Pregnant Black women exhibit a disproportionately higher prevalence of BV compared to pregnant White women.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review existing literature and establish bacterial vaginosis (BV) as an independent risk factor for preterm birth and low birth weight (LBW).
  • To highlight the increased risk of BV and its consequences in pregnant Black women.
  • To evaluate the efficacy of BV treatment in reducing rates of preterm birth and LBW.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of published literature on bacterial vaginosis (BV) and its association with preterm birth and low birth weight (LBW).
  • Analysis of epidemiological data regarding BV prevalence in different racial groups.
  • Review of studies investigating the effectiveness of BV treatment during pregnancy.

Main Results:

  • Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is confirmed as an independent risk factor for preterm birth and low birth weight (LBW).
  • Pregnant Black women have a nearly threefold higher prevalence of BV compared to pregnant White women.
  • A significant proportion of women with BV are asymptomatic, underscoring the need for screening.
  • Treatment of BV during pregnancy has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing preterm birth and LBW rates.

Conclusions:

  • Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a modifiable risk factor for preterm birth and low birth weight (LBW).
  • Targeted screening and treatment of BV in pregnant women, especially Black women, can significantly improve perinatal outcomes.
  • Integration of BV screening into routine antenatal care is warranted to mitigate risks associated with preterm birth and LBW.

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