Prevalence of vaginal candidiasis among pregnant women attending different gynecological clinic at South Libya

Pregnant women commonly develop increased vaginal discharge which may lead to pregnancy complications like abortions, premature birth, low birth weight and other morbidities. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Candida isolates among patients attending different Gynecological clinic in a different area at south of Libya [Sebha, Obary, Morzoq and Tragen] was examined. 150 samples of high vaginal swabs [HVS] were collected from both pregnant and non pregnant women with symptoms of vaginal infection, samples were tested by microscopic examination and culture on Sabouraud Dextrose agar [SDA]. Colonial morphology, wet preparation, gram staining, germ tube test, were carried out for identification of the isolated organisms. Thirty six Candida species were isolated, Candida albicans isolated from [92%] patient samples, while yeast other than Candida albicans were isolated from [8%] samples. Aged between 16-25 years old had higher percentage of candid isolate. Vaginal discharge was the most symptoms were noticed in pregnant and Non-pregnant women. High prevalence of Candida albican and other Candida species among pregnant women were documented in this study. Screening protocol for early diagnosis of candidiasis is recommended