Bacterial vaginosis: A problematic infection from both a perinatal and neonatal perspective

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) infections are common in women of reproductive age and are easily diagnosed and treatable. Aside from being an annoyance when symptoms of discharge, odor, and pruritus occur in the gravid female, BV infections increase risk of late miscarriage, preterm labor, preterm premature rupture of membranes, and, consequently, preterm delivery. Antepartum and puerperal issues such as chorioamnionitis and endometritis are increased in the context of maternal BV. Moreover, the morbidities and mortality of preterm delivery are consequently increased as a result of BV during pregnancy. Although the pathology associated with BV appears to result from inflammation, more investigation is needed in terms of designing guidelines for appropriate screening and treatment for the prevention of adverse outcomes. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.