Opportunistic aerobic bacteria
These bacteria are generally aerobic (multiply with oxygen), and if present, likely translocated from the gut. At relatively high levels (over 500,000 total genomic copies / m) these bacteria can be inflammatory, and may increase the risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), Aerobic Vaginitis (AV) and other health conditions.
However, for some women, their very presence even at low levels (below 500,000 total genomic copies / ml) may be problematic. Many of these microbes are common uropathogens, and so increase the risk of a UTI e.g. Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae. These microbes too have been implicated in pregnancy complications such as miscarriage and stillbirth.1
Streptococcus agalactiae, also known as Group B strep, is a type of bacteria that can cause serious illness in newborns. Although rare, Group B strep is the most common cause of serious infection in newborns.2 Medical interventions should be made on a case by case basis, taking into account wider health goals and symptoms. Treatment may be essential in cases of fertility and UTIs.
To read more about Opportunistic Aerobic Bacteria on a Strain Level click here.
REFERENCE: 1. Salmanov AG, Ishchak OM, Shostak YM, et al. Bacterial infection causes of pregnancy loss and premature birth in the women in Ukraine. Wiad Lek. 2021;74(6):1355-1359. 2. Cedars-Sinai. Group B streptococcus infection in newborns. Cedars-Sinai Health Library. Available from: https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions-pediatrics/g/group-b-streptococcus-infection-in-newborns.html. Accessed 30 Jan 2025.
