Factores de riesgo asociados a la vaginosis bacteriana en mujeres en edad fértil atendidas en el Hospital General Milagro en el periodo 2024-2026.

Abstract

Introduction: Bacterial vaginosis is one of the main reasons for gynecological consultations and abnormal vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age. It occurs due to an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota, characterized by a decrease in Lactobacillus and an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria, which increases vaginal pH and can contribute to the development of gynecological and obstetric symptoms and complications. Materials and Methods: This study employed observational, retrospective, cross-sectional, and analytical design. Results: This study analyzed 157 medical records of women treated at the Milagro General Hospital between 2024 and 2026 to identify risk factors associated with this condition. A prevalence of bacterial vaginosis of 79% was found here. In the multivariate analysis, the variables significantly associated with bacterial vaginosis were a higher number of sexual partners (OR=6.422; p=0.013), the presence of vaginal symptoms (OR=72.362; p<0.001), and a vaginal pH greater than 4.5 (OR=22.475; p=0.002). Conclusions: It was concluded that bacterial vaginosis was highly prevalent in the studied population and was mainly related to sexual behaviors and alterations in the vaginal microenvironment. These findings highlight the need to strengthen strategies for sexual education, prevention, and diagnosis of this condition.