Factors associated with recurrent bacterial vaginosis. J Reprod Med 2010;55(1-2):55-61
Date
03/27/2010Pubmed ID
20337209Scopus ID
2-s2.0-77952750350 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 23 CitationsAbstract
OBJECTIVE: To determine whether menstrual abnormalities, multiple personal behaviors and some contraceptive methods, all of which have been described as potential causes of single episodes of bacterial vaginosis (BV), are associated with recurrent bacterial vaginosis (RBV).
STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective, case-controlled study performed in an urban setting. Women with RBV and matched controls were mailed a survey that included multiple questions about potential risk factors for BV. Four-to-one matching of age groups was performed, with 28 RBV cases matched to 112 controls.
RESULTS: Among multiple possible predisposing factors, only African American ethnicity (p < 0.001) and > 1 male sex partner in the previous 2 years (p = 0.007) were strongly associated with RBV. Abnormal uterine bleeding, frequent intercourse without a condom or withdrawal, anal intercourse, menstrual hygiene product use, tub baths, back-to-front wiping after using the toilet, smoking, choice of contraceptive method (including condoms, the combination oral contraceptive, injectable medroxyprogesterone acetate or an intrauterine device) and douching were not associated with RBV.
CONCLUSION: Providers should counsel women with RBV to minimize their number of male sex partners. There are few data to support the recommendation of other behavioral changes.
Author List
Klatt TE, Cole DC, Eastwood DC, Barnabei VMAuthor
Timothy E. Klatt MD Professor in the Obstetrics and Gynecology department at Medical College of WisconsinMESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
AdolescentAdult
Case-Control Studies
Contraception
Female
Health Behavior
Health Surveys
Humans
Male
Odds Ratio
Recurrence
Retrospective Studies
Risk Factors
Sexual Behavior
Sexual Partners
Urban Population
Vaginosis, Bacterial
Young Adult
