Original Research

Bacterial Vaginosis in Pregnancy and the Risk of Prematurity A Meta-Analysis

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References

Implications for Future Research

The association of BV with prematurity remains at the disease-oriented level of evidence. Although neonatal and infant morbidity and mortality are increased with preterm delivery, the clinical impact of BV or its treatment on these patient-oriented outcomes remains unclear. Additionally, since approximately 50% of the pregnant women with BV are asymptomatic, some advocate universal screening for BV during pregnancy.61 A large randomized controlled trial evaluating patient-oriented health benefits as well as costs is warranted before this becomes a part of routine prenatal care.

Recommendations for clinical practice

BV in pregnancy is associated with a significant risk of preterm delivery. Evidence suggests that oral treatment with certain antibiotics can decrease this risk, especially in those with a previous preterm birth.62 Thus, if identified during pregnancy, BV should be treated. There is insufficient data to recommend screening for BV during pregnancy.

Acknowledgments

This project was done as part of Dr Flynn’s requirements for her master’s degree. She thanks the members of her thesis committee for their invaluable feedback. The authors also thank Shirley Killian for her assistance with article retrieval, Tangelia Pruitt for her assistance with bibliographic management, and Bill Grant for his statistical guidance.

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