Bacterial vaginosis and other infections in pregnant women in Senegal

Abstract

Background Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is associated with a higher risk of preterm delivery and spontaneous abortion. Yet little data on BV prevalence exist for sub-Saharan countries. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis and associated risk factors among pregnant women in Senegal. Methods From October 2013 to December 2018, pregnant women in their third trimester were recruited in two primary health centers (one suburban, one rural) in Senegal. Healthcare workers interviewed women and collected a lower vaginal swab and a blood sample. Vaginal flora were classified into four categories using vaginal smear microscopic examination and Gram’s coloration. In our study, BV was defined as vaginal flora with no Lactobacillus spp. Variables associated with BV were analyzed using STATA® through univariate and multivariate analysis. Results A total of 457 women provided a vaginal sample for analysis. Overall, BV prevalence was 18.6% (85/457) [95% CI 15.4–22.6]) and was similar in suburban and rural areas (18.9% versus 18.1%, p = 0.843). Multivariate analysis showed that primigravidity was the only factor independently associated with a lower risk of BV (aOR 0.35 [95% CI 0.17–0.72]). Conclusions Our study showed significant BV prevalence among pregnant women in Senegal. Although the literature has underscored the potential consequences of BV for obstetric outcomes, data are scarce on BV prevalence in sub-Saharan African countries. Before authorities consider systematic BV screening for pregnant women, a larger study would be useful in documenting prevalence, risk factors and the impact of BV on pregnancy outcomes.

Risk Factors Associated with Bacterial Vaginosis in Pregnant Women in Senegal

“…This obtained prevalence of BV is within the expected range for African women, that's 25-50% [17]. This prevalence rate was higher than those reported by previous studies in Senegal, with rates ranging from 21% [18] to 18.6% [19].…”

“…In our study, women in the [16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24] age group had a higher prevalence of BV and this had been reported in the work of Ibrahim SM et al, in 2014, in Maiduguri in North East Nigeria [27].…”

“…The median age of women with BV was 24 years (21-29), which was lower than that of women without BV, who were 27 years (22.5-30). Women in the age group [16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24] had a higher prevalence of BV estimated at 53.6% (n = 60). This prevalence was lower, estimated at 42.4% (52/112) in the group of women older than 25 years.…”

Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Adverse Outcomes of Bacterial Vaginosis among Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review

“…A study on pregnant low-income African-American women reported a prevalence of 25% [13]. Similarly, another study in the sub-Saharan African countries suggested variations in the BV prevalence from 25 to 50% and from 9 to 23% [23].…”

“…The search strategies yielded a total of 2238 records; among them, 12 studies [2,5,6,15,[17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24] met the inclusion criteria and were included in the qualitative synthesis. The article selection process is shown in the PRISMA ow diagram (see Fig.…”