What is one of the top three vaginal infections associated with preterm birth?

Asymptomatic bacteriuria is indeed a significant concern during pregnancy and is directly associated with adverse outcomes, including preterm birth. In pregnant patients, the presence of bacteria in the urine without symptoms can lead to a urinary tract infection (UTI) if left untreated. UTIs, particularly when they progress to pyelonephritis, can increase the risk of preterm labor, low birth weight, and other complications.

In general, optimal management of asymptomatic bacteriuria is essential because screening and treatment significantly reduce these adverse outcomes. Guidelines recommend screening for this condition during the first trimester or at the first prenatal visit, as appropriate treatment can lead to improved maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

Other infections like trichomoniasis, while also important, do not have the same level of evidence or prevalence associated with preterm birth compared to asymptomatic bacteriuria. Similarly, clostridium infections are not typically classified under the vaginal infections related to preterm birth, and while they can have serious implications, they are not among the top three considerations in the context of preterm outcomes.