Research reveals over half of pregnant women in Kintampo have vaginal infections that threaten maternal and infant health outcomes.
of pregnant women had at least one vaginal infection
Imagine more than half of all pregnant women in a community silently coping with intimate health infections that could threaten their pregnancies. This isn't a hypothetical scenario—it was the reality uncovered at the Kintampo Municipal Hospital in Ghana, where researchers discovered an alarming prevalence of vaginal infections among expectant mothers. These common but potentially dangerous conditions often go undiscussed despite their significant impact on maternal and infant health. Through meticulous scientific investigation, researchers revealed that 56.4% of pregnant women attending antenatal clinic had at least one vaginal infection, spotlighting a critical public health issue demanding immediate attention 1 5 9 .
Vaginal infections represent some of the most common reproductive health challenges worldwide, particularly during pregnancy when hormonal changes create a more susceptible environment. The Kintampo study focused on three primary infections:
Caused by an overgrowth of Candida species, typically Candida albicans, this fungal infection leads to itching, irritation, and thick white discharge. Approximately 20-50% of healthy women harbor Candida without symptoms, but pregnancy can trigger symptomatic outbreaks 5 9 .
This condition occurs when the natural balance of vaginal bacteria is disrupted, with beneficial lactobacilli decreasing while anaerobic bacteria like Gardnerella multiply. BV is particularly concerning during pregnancy as it has been linked to preterm delivery, low birth weight, and other complications 2 5 .
What makes these infections particularly concerning during pregnancy is their association with serious adverse outcomes including preterm delivery, miscarriage, low birth weight, and increased susceptibility to other infections like HIV 5 9 . Despite these risks, many women remain asymptomatic or hesitant to seek treatment, allowing these conditions to silently threaten maternal and infant health.
From September 2014 to March 2015, researchers conducted a comprehensive cross-sectional study at the Kintampo Municipal Hospital's antenatal clinic, enrolling 589 pregnant women 1 5 9 . The study employed rigorous scientific methods:
Pregnant women attending routine antenatal visits were invited to participate
Two vaginal swabs collected using strict aseptic techniques
Gram staining and wet mount microscopy for accurate diagnosis
The study uncovered startling statistics about the burden of vaginal infections in this pregnant population:
The finding that over half of the participants had at least one infection underscores the magnitude of this public health challenge. The high prevalence of VVC and BV suggests these conditions represent the most significant burden, while the relatively low rate of trichomoniasis aligns with patterns seen in some other regions 5 .
Researchers meticulously analyzed potential risk factors to understand what made some women more vulnerable:
Lower risk of BV (OR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.13-0.58)
Lower risk of BV (OR: 0.54, CI: 0.30-0.96)
No significant association with infections
No significant association with infections
Interestingly, contrary to some previous studies, factors like douching and antibiotic use showed no significant association with infections in this population. The protective effect of later pregnancy stages and higher parity against BV suggests complex physiological and immune interactions during pregnancy that warrant further investigation 5 .
The accurate diagnosis of vaginal infections requires specific laboratory techniques and reagents. The Kintampo study utilized several essential tools:
The high prevalence rates found in the Kintampo study take on deeper significance when considering the potential consequences of these infections. Bacterial vaginosis, the second most common infection found in the study, has been associated with a 40-100% increased risk of preterm delivery and greater susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections including HIV 2 5 .
A recent systematic review and network meta-analysis published in 2025 examined whether treating BV during pregnancy improves outcomes. Surprisingly, the analysis found little evidence that BV treatment reduces preterm birth incidence, though probiotic treatments showed promise for future research . This paradox highlights the complexity of vaginal infections and the need for more nuanced approaches to management during pregnancy.
The Kintampo findings also reveal important patterns when compared with other regions. While vulvovaginal candidiasis was most prevalent in Kintampo (36.5%), studies from Southern Ethiopia reported slightly lower rates (30%) 4 7 . Similarly, trichomoniasis prevalence in Kintampo (1.4%) was considerably lower than the 13.79% found in a Nepalese study 3 . These geographical variations underscore how local factors, including climate, hygiene practices, and healthcare access, may influence infection patterns.
The Kintampo study reveals a silent crisis affecting pregnant women—one that demands attention from healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities. With over half of expectant mothers affected by vaginal infections, the need for routine screening, early detection, and effective treatment becomes undeniable 1 5 9 .
Implement regular testing during antenatal visits
Identify infections before complications develop
Provide appropriate, evidence-based care
While the path forward requires more research to fully understand the risk factors and optimal treatments, especially during pregnancy, the findings provide a crucial foundation for improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes in Kintampo and similar settings. By shedding light on this hidden epidemic, we take the first step toward ensuring that every woman can experience a safer, healthier pregnancy.