Bacterial Vaginosis in Pregnant Women Receiving Care at Maxixe Health Centre

Abstract

Izaidino Muchanga, Celio Alfredo, Guido Nchowela, Rey Candido, Baivo Neves, Arnaldo Cumbane and Hilario Massango

Bacterial Vaginosis is a vaginal infection that occurs when there is a change in the balance of the vaginal flora with vaginal discharge, which may or may not have a characteristic smell, a decrease in vaginal pH, and it is one of the most common public health problems in Sub-Saharan African countries in women in reproductive age. Premature birth, underweight newborns and increased risk of HIV infection are some of its consequences. In Sub-Saharan countries like Mozambique, the real prevalence of this infection is almost unknown. Thus, this study was developed with the aim of analyzing the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in pregnant women receiving care in the Maxixe City Health Centre (CSM) and identifying the risk factors associated with it. 253 samples of pregnant women attending prenatal external consultations at CSM were used in this study. Samples of vaginal exudate were obtained, stained by the Gram method and observed microscopically using the Nugent method to identify the bacterial vaginosis. The prevalence of bacterial vaginosis was 12, 3%, and the highest prevalence was recorded in the age group of 15-24. In this population, the inconsistent use of condom in sexual intercourse and multiple partners may be the risk factors in acquiring this infection. Therefore, it is concluded that the knowledge of etiology, correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment of bacterial vaginosis may contribute to a more comprehensive prenatal examination, aiming to reduce the rates of bacterial vaginosis and its consequences in pregnancy.

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