Evaluation Of Common Pathogens That Cause Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Abstract

Background

Vaginal discharges are a common health issue faced by women, especially of reproductive age. Alteration in the normal flora of the vagina promotes the growth of bacteria which causes the vaginal discharge. This condition is common in sexually active females.

Objective

To evaluate the occurrence of vaginal candidiasis (VC), Group B streptococcus, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and vaginal Trichomoniasis in women presenting with vaginal discharge in our hospital.

Methodology

A total of 195 women were included in the research. The research was conducted in the Gynecology and Obstetrics department of Bolan Medical Complex Hospital Quetta, Pakistan from Feb 2020 to Feb 2021.  All the participants were of reproductive age and had a complaint of vaginal discharge. Individual proforma was filled for all the patients after taking a detailed history. Speculum examination and high vaginal swabs (HVS) from two sites were taken. One was used for the examination by the wet mount for pus cells, Trichomonas vaginalis motility, and clue cells. The second one was used for the Amine test and checking pH. Gram staining was done for the confirmation of growth. Data were analyzed by IBM SPSS version 26.

Result

The prevalence of vaginal discharge was 7.05%. 125 out of 195 participants who had complained of vaginal discharge, were positive for a pathology. 61 (48.8%) were detected with Gardnerella vaginalis. 32 (25.6%) had Candidiasis. 18 (14.4%) had Group B Streptococcus infection and 14 (11.2%) had Trichomoniasis.

Conclusion

The most common causative pathogen of vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age was Gardnerella vaginalis resulting in BV. The second was Group B streptococcus and the third one was Trichomonas vaginalis.