Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence, clinical presentation, microbiological causes, antibiotic and anti-fungal sensitivity patterns, and pregnancy impacts of vaginal infections manifesting as abnormal discharge among pregnant women.
Study design: A cross-sectional study.
Patients and Methods: The study included 303 pregnant women with vaginal discharge attending an antenatal clinic. Symptoms were recorded and vaginal swabs underwent microbiological testing. Bacterial isolates were subject to antibiotic sensitivity testing.
Results: Bacterial vaginosis (41.6%) was the most common infection followed by candidiasis (39.9%) and trichomoniasis (6.9%). Symptoms included vulvar irritation (51.8%), lower abdominal pain (54.5%), and purulent discharge (64.5%). Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were frequently isolated. Antibiotic resistance was emerging. Bacterial vaginosis was associated with preterm birth, low birth weight, and other adverse outcomes. Among Candida isolates, greater sensitivity to micafungin and caspofungin versus fluconazole was exhibited.
Conclusion: Vaginal infections are highly prevalent among pregnant women and increasing antibiotic resistance is concerning. Screening and treatment of bacterial vaginosis is vital for preventing poor maternal-fetal outcomes. Further research into optimal antibiotic and antifungal choices is warranted.