Abstract

Background:Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition characterized by an imbalance in the vaginal flora which can lead to preterm delivery, abortions and maternal infections .The main goal of this study was to study the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in Ardabil.

Methods:In these cross-sectional study 507 pregnant women, 16-45 year-olds were screened from rural health centers of Ardabil .Data were collected via Questionnaire, general physical and obstetric examination and vaginal specimen .Three from four Amsel’s clinical criteria were used for diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 13, and descriptive statistics.

Results:Prevalence of Bacterial vaginosis in this study was 12.4%. The majority of women (66%) were in range 20–30 years, housewife (62%) and low literate (58%). None of them were smoker and most of them used contraceptive pills (61%). The most common complaint of patients with bacterial vaginosis was a smelly discharge. The most common Amsel criteria in patients with bacterial vaginosis were 69.2% homogenous discharge, 67.3% Whiff test, and 32% clue cells.

Conclusions:According to results of this study bacterial vaginisis was higher in 20-30 year-olds, and most common sign was fish odor discharge. Therefore educating women can prevent pregnancy problems.

Key words:Bacterial vaginosis,woman,pregnancy, prevalence