Vulvovaginitis in pregnant women: A systematic review from 2018 to 2023

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of vulvovaginitis in pregnant women through a comprehensive review of the existing literature. Methodology: A systematic review was carried out based on the question: "What is the prevalence of vulvovaginitis in pregnant women?" Original and quantitative studies addressing vulvovaginitis in pregnant women, published between 2018 and 2023, in English, complete and free of charge, were included. The search was performed in the PubMed database in July 2023, using the terms: Vulvovaginitis AND pregnant women. Results: A total of 62 articles were identified, of which 57 were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria: 36 did not have vulvovaginitis as the main focus, 14 were not related to pregnant women, and 7 did not provide relevant data. After screening, 11 articles were read in full and 5 were selected for the systematic review. Conclusion: Despite existing guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of vulvovaginitis, it is essential to strengthen prevention among pregnant women by raising awareness about the most prevalent diseases, signs, symptoms, and risk factors.