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Prevalence of Candida albicans and bacterial vaginosis in asymptomatic pregnant women in South Yorkshire, United Kingdom

Outcome of a prospective study

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Abstract

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and age distribution of Candida albicans and bacterial vaginosis in asymptomatic pregnant women.

Method

One thousand and seventy-three (1,073) consecutive women who attended the antenatal clinic at Barnsley District General Hospital, Barnsley, UK, over a 15-month period were studied. Endo-cervical and high vaginal swabs for Candida albicans were obtained.

Results

Sixty-five percent (65%) were in the age group of 21–30 years, and the smallest group was of age 40 years and above. Maternal age of all the women was 25.8 years (SD 5.5) with a range of 33. Prevalence of Candida albicans was 12.5%, and the highest percentage of 65.7% (88 patients) was in the age group of 21–30 years. Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis was 3.54%, with almost 90% among the age group of 21–30 years.

Conclusion

Prevalence of Candida albicans and bacteria vaginosis among asymptomatic pregnant women was 12.5 and 3.54%, respectively.

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Acknowledgments

We are indebted to the Institutional Review Board of the Barnsley District General Hospital, Barnsley, for the approval of the protocol for the study. The invaluable service and the enthusiasm shown by Dr. Mera Osman and her staff at the Microbiology Department and the nursing staff of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department are highly commendable.

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Correspondence to A. A. Akinbiyi.

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There is no financial support from an individual or pharmaceutical company.

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Akinbiyi, A.A., Watson, R. & Feyi-Waboso, P. Prevalence of Candida albicans and bacterial vaginosis in asymptomatic pregnant women in South Yorkshire, United Kingdom. Arch Gynecol Obstet 278, 463–466 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-008-0593-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-008-0593-8

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