Around 10% to 30% of pregnant women may encounter bacterial vaginosis (BV) at some point during their pregnancy. BV occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria while beneficial bacteria, like lactobacillus, diminish.
What are the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy?
The most noticeable symptom of BV is often a strong fishy odor emanating from the vagina. Women may also notice an increase in discharge that appears gray. Other symptoms can include a burning sensation while urinating, itching in the vulvovaginal area, and discomfort during intercourse.
How is BV diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves testing the vaginal discharge. This can be done through methods such as a wet mount (a microscopic slide test), a pH test (since BV often raises the vaginal pH to 4.5 or higher), a KOH slide test, or a whiff test that detects the fishy odor.
What causes bacterial vaginosis?
Women with BV have decreased levels of amylase in their vagina, an enzyme responsible for breaking down carbohydrates into smaller forms that healthy bacteria use as food. Without this food source, lactobacillus bacteria struggle to survive. Additionally, women with BV often have lower levels of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which help combat invading bacteria. While BV is not sexually transmitted, it can be associated with having vaginal intercourse, leading some to categorize it under sexually transmitted infections.
Risk factors for developing BV include:
- Having new sexual partners
- Having multiple sexual partners
- Douching (using water or other liquids to cleanse the vagina)
- Being pregnant
- Being African-American, as BV is more prevalent in this demographic
- Using an intrauterine device (IUD)
How can this affect my pregnancy?
The CDC estimates that around 1 million pregnant women are affected by BV each year. Hormonal changes during pregnancy increase the likelihood of developing BV. If left untreated, BV can elevate the risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Premature birth is classified as delivery before 37 weeks, and low birth weight refers to babies weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces at birth. Both conditions can lead to significant health issues for the newborn. BV can also lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is an infection of the uterus that may heighten infertility risks.
Will I be screened for bacterial vaginosis if I’m pregnant?
Routine screening for BV in asymptomatic pregnant women is not typically required. However, it is crucial to voice any concerns regarding BV to your healthcare provider.
Why might I be screened for bacterial vaginosis?
The CDC recommends that all pregnant women exhibiting symptoms of BV be screened and treated. Additionally, women with a history of preterm labor are also encouraged to undergo screening for BV.
What treatment options are available for bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy?
Common treatments involve antibiotics like metronidazole (Flagyl), clindamycin, and tinidazole, which target the harmful bacteria causing BV symptoms. However, antibiotics can also eliminate beneficial bacteria, potentially harming long-term vaginal health. Research led by Dr. Emma Carter from Stanford University raises concerns about the lasting impact of antibiotics on healthy bacteria, suggesting that these medications should be used judiciously, especially in pregnant women and young children.
Because maintaining a healthy vaginal flora is essential, exploring alternatives to antibiotics might be beneficial. Options such as a vaginal probiotic that includes necessary micronutrients (like iron, zinc, and manganese) could help restore balance in the vaginal ecosystem. Notably, a study conducted by researchers in 2004 indicated that antibiotic treatment may lower the risk of premature rupture of membranes and low birth weight for those with a history of preterm labor. However, this study did not find significant evidence that treatment effectively reduces premature labor.
To promote vaginal health, enhancing the presence of good bacteria may be the best approach. For those considering home insemination options, you might want to check out Make A Mom, which offers a reusable insemination kit, or explore the process of home insemination at Make A Mom’s How It Works page. If you’re looking for a sperm donor, Vegas Pregnancy provides a free matching service in Las Vegas.
For those seeking more information on maintaining vaginal health while breastfeeding, read our article on alcohol and breastfeeding. Additionally, Modern Family Blog provides further insights into this topic. For those curious about fertility treatments, the Johns Hopkins Fertility Center is an excellent resource.
In summary, bacterial vaginosis is a common concern during pregnancy, with symptoms and potential implications that warrant attention. Treatment options are available, but careful considerations regarding the use of antibiotics are important for long-term health. By discussing any concerns with your healthcare provider and exploring alternative options, you can better manage your vaginal health during pregnancy.