Sexual activity, vaginal symptoms, maternal perineal hygiene behavior, and constipation on ano-vaginal colonization of group B streptococcus in near term pregnancy

Abstract

Abstract Background Maternal Group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonization is influenced by many factors but results are inconsistent. Consideration of antenatal risk factors may help inform decision making on GBS microbiological culture screening where universal screening is not standard of care. We sought to identify independent predictors of GBS colonization at 34–37 weeks gestation incorporating vaginal symptoms, perineal hygiene measures, sexual activity, and a potential novel factor, constipation. Methods In this prospective cross-sectional study, 573 women at 34–37 weeks gestation had an ano-vaginal swab taken and sent for selective culture for GBS. Women were asked about vaginal bleeding, discharge, irritation and candidiasis, antibiotic use during pregnancy, ano-vaginal hygiene practices such as douching and perineal cleansing after toileting, sexual intercourse related activities, and a potential novel factor for GBS carriage, constipation. Maternal basic demographics and obstetric-related characteristics were also collected. Bivariate analyses were performed to identify associates of GBS colonization. All variables with p < 0.05 found on bivariate analysis were then included into a model for multivariable binary logistic regression analysis to identify independent risk factors for GBS colonization. Results GBS colonization was found in 235/573 (41.0%) of participants. Twenty six independent variables were considered for bivariate analysis. Eight were found to have p < 0.05. Following adjusted analysis, six independent predictors of GBS colonization were identified: ethnicity, previous neonatal GBS prophylaxis, antenatal vaginal irritation, antibiotic use, recent panty liner use, and frequency of sexual intercourse. Vaginal discharge and perineal cleansing were not associated after adjustment. Recent douching and constipation were not associated on bivariate analysis. Conclusion The identification of independent predictors of GBS colonization in late pregnancy may inform the woman and care provider in their shared decision making for microbiological screening at 35–38 weeks gestation in locations where universal GBS screening is not standard of care. Ethics oversight This study was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) on August 9, 2022, reference number 2022328-11120.