Prevalence of STIs in Pregnancy and Their Impact on Birth Outcomes in Malawi
Author Information
Author(s): Charlotte van der Veer, Kondoni Chifundo, Kuyere Annie, Mtonga Fatima, Nyasulu Vita, Shaba George, Morroni Chelsea, Gadama Gladys, Gadama Luis, Kawaza Kondwani, Dube Queen, French Neil, Lissauer David, Freyne Bridget
Primary Institution: Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in pregnant women and their association with adverse birth outcomes in Malawi?
Conclusion
The study found that STIs, particularly HIV, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and untreated syphilis, are prevalent among pregnant women in Malawi and are associated with adverse birth outcomes.
Supporting Evidence
- HIV prevalence was 16.5% among participants.
- Maternal prevalence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae was 3.1%.
- Maternal prevalence of untreated syphilis was 2.0% for early stage.
- Adverse birth outcomes were more common among women with untreated syphilis.
- NG positivity significantly increased the odds for adverse birth outcomes.
Takeaway
Pregnant women in Malawi often have infections that can harm their babies, but many don't show symptoms. Testing for these infections can help keep both moms and babies healthy.
Methodology
A case-control study was conducted where maternal vaginal swabs were tested for STIs, and associations with adverse birth outcomes were analyzed.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data and the refusal of women to participate based on personal beliefs.
Limitations
Poor recruitment due to many eligible women declining to participate, and the study was conducted at a single hospital, which may not represent the broader population.
Participant Demographics
The study included pregnant women who delivered at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, with a median age of 24 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.039 for NG positivity
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.10 to 9.91 for HIV association with ABO
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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