What antibiotic is commonly used for bacterial vaginosis in pregnant women?

Metronidazole is the recommended antibiotic for treating bacterial vaginosis, particularly in pregnant women. This is due to its effectiveness in eradicating the anaerobic bacteria that are commonly associated with the condition. Clinical guidelines support the use of metronidazole in pregnancy because it has been shown to be safe for the mother and fetus, especially when compared to other antibiotics that may have contraindications during pregnancy. Metronidazole works by disrupting the DNA of the bacteria, leading to cell death, which helps restore the normal vaginal flora.

In contrast, the other antibiotics listed, such as cipro, doxycycline, and azithromycin, are not typically recommended for this condition during pregnancy due to various factors such as safety profiles or efficacy concerns. Doxycycline, for example, is contraindicated in pregnancy due to its association with tooth discoloration in the developing fetus. Azithromycin and cipro, while they might be effective against certain bacterial infections, are not the first-line treatments recommended specifically for bacterial vaginosis in the pregnant population. Thus, metronidazole remains the most appropriate choice in this context.