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Mitchell CM. Assessment and Treatment of Vaginitis. Obstet Gynecol 2024:00006250-990000000-01111. [PMID: 38991218 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Vaginitis is the presenting symptom at millions of office visits each year in the United States. Although treatment of sporadic cases is often straightforward, recurrent cases present both diagnostic and treatment challenges. Molecular diagnostic tests are likely superior to in-office microscopy for most clinicians and most cases. In both recurrent bacterial vaginosis and recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis, national treatment guidelines recommend an extended treatment duration with one of the first-line agents. In cases in which such treatment is not successful, vaginal boric acid is likely the cheapest and easiest alternative option. New antifungal medications offer additional but limited treatment options. Probiotics are not recommended for prevention of vulvovaginal candidiasis; however, vaginal products containing Lactobacillus crispatus may have promise for recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Trichomoniasis should be treated with a 1-week course of metronidazole; this is the only sexually transmitted infection for which treatment recommendations vary by sex. In cases in which patients do not respond to initial treatment, the diagnosis should be reconsidered, and other potential causes such as desquamative inflammatory vaginitis, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or vulvodynia should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, and the Vulvovaginal Disorders Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Yazdy GM, Mitchell C, Sobel JD, Tuddenham S. Recurrent Infectious Vaginitis: A Practical Approach for the Primary Care Clinician. Med Clin North Am 2024; 108:373-392. [PMID: 38331486 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcna.2023.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Recurrent infectious vaginitis can lead to significant morbidity, patient frustration, and health care costs. The most common causes are bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC); however, other infectious and noninfectious etiologies should be considered in patients with recurrent symptoms. A detailed history and physical examination with appropriate testing at the time of symptoms is critical to establishing a correct diagnosis. Management options for recurrent BV and VVC are limited. Complex cases including those with atypical symptoms, negative testing for common causes, refractory symptoms despite appropriate therapy or recurrences during suppressive therapy will require referral to specialist care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golsa M Yazdy
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, 4940 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Caroline Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jack D Sobel
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Wayne State University, 3901 Chrysler Drive Suite 4A, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Susan Tuddenham
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University, 5200 Eastern Avenue, MFL Center Tower, Suite 381, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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Hong W, Wu Z, Li L, Wang B, Li X. Intrauterine adhesions treated with hysteroscopic adhesiolysis and subsequent obstetric outcome: A retrospective matched cohort study. BJOG 2024. [PMID: 38418403 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine whether a history of hysteroscopic adhesiolysis (HA)-treated intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) was associated with an increased risk of adverse obstetrical outcomes in subsequent pregnancies. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING A tertiary-care hospital in Shanghai, China. POPULATION A cohort of 114 142 pregnant women who were issued an antenatal card and received routine antenatal care in Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, between January 2016 and October 2021. METHODS From the cohort of 114 142 pregnant women, each woman with a history of HA-treated IUA prior to the current pregnancy (n = 780) was matched with four women without a history of IUAs (n = 3010) using propensity score matching. The matching variables were maternal age and parity, mode of conception, pre-pregnancy body mass index and prior history of abortion. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Pregnancy complications, placental abnormalities, postpartum haemorrhage and adverse birth outcomes. RESULTS Compared with women with no history of IUAs, women with a history of HA-treated IUAs were at higher risk of pre-eclampsia (RR 1.69, 95% CI 1.23-2.33), placenta accreta spectrum (RR 4.72, 95% CI 3.9-5.73), placenta praevia (RR 4.23, 95% CI 2.85-6.30), postpartum haemorrhage (RR 2.86, 95% CI 1.94-4.23), preterm premature rupture of membranes (RR 3.02, 95% CI 1.97-4.64) and iatrogenic preterm birth (RR 2.86, 95% CI 2.14-3.81). Those women were also more likely to receive cervical cerclage (RR 5.63, 95% CI 3.95-8.02) during pregnancy and haemostatic therapies after delivery (RR 2.17, 95% CI 1.75-2.69). Moreover, we observed that the RRs of those adverse obstetrical outcomes increased with the increasing number of hysteroscopic surgeries. CONCLUSIONS This study found that a history of HA-treated IUAs, especially a history of repeated HAs, was associated with an increased risk of adverse obstetrical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Hong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiping Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Beiying Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaocui Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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Balle C, Happel AU, Heffron R, Jaspan HB. Contraceptive effects on the cervicovaginal microbiome: Recent evidence including randomized trials. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13785. [PMID: 37881121 PMCID: PMC10696626 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Until recently, most data regarding the effects of non-barrier contraceptives on the mucosal microbiome have derived from observational studies, which are potentially biased due to behavioral confounders that may mask their true biological effects. METHOD OF STUDY This narrative review summarises recent evidence of the effect of contraceptives on the cervicovaginal microbiome, emphasising data obtained through randomized trials. RESULTS Good quality data describe that initiation of long-acting progestin-only contraceptives, including levonorgestrel (LNG)-implant and the injectables depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM) and norethisterone enanthate (NET-EN) do not alter the mucosal microbial environment. Likewise, no strong evidence exists that the use of oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) is associated with alterations of the vaginal microbiome or increased risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Limited data on the effect of intravaginal rings (IVRs) on the mucosal environment exist and show conflicting effects on the vaginal microbiota. Copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) initiation has been associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) acquisition, including in a randomized trial. LNG-IUDs may have similar affects but need to be evaluated further. CONCLUSION Different synthetic hormones have divergent effects on the microbiome and therefore novel hormonal methods need to be rigorously evaluated. Furthermore, the addition of antiretrovirals into multipurpose technologies may alter the effects of the hormonal component. There is thus a critical need to improve our understanding of the biological effects of contraceptive hormones and delivery methods with different pharmacokinetic and chemical properties on the mucosal microbiome in rigorous trials, to inform the development of novel contraceptives and improve individual family planning guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Balle
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anna-Ursula Happel
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Renee Heffron
- University of Washington Department of Global Health, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Heather B. Jaspan
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- University of Washington Department of Global Health, Seattle, WA, USA
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Oluoch L, Tapia K, Kiptinness C, Casmir E, Maina SG, Makena L, Selke S, Wang M, Chohan B, Sycuro L, Wald A, Ngure K, Mugo N, Roxby A. Longitudinal assessment of bacterial vaginosis prior to and during incident pregnancy: an observational study in Kenyan adolescent girls and young women. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071746. [PMID: 37813538 PMCID: PMC10565234 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-071746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine bacterial vaginosis (BV) status at multiple time points among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) and assess the impact of pregnancy on their BV status. DESIGN Longitudinal cohort study. SETTING Thika, Kenya. PARTICIPANTS AGYW aged 16-20 years enrolled prior to first sex or reporting only a single lifetime partner. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was relative risk (RR) of BV during pregnancy compared with before pregnancy by analysing longitudinal trends in BV over time. BV risk was estimated using Poisson regression models. RESULTS A total of 121 AGYW became pregnant in the parent cohort and had BV results before, during or after pregnancy. Point prevalence of BV was 11.0% at visits >12 months pre-pregnancy, 13.0% at 3-12 months pre-pregnancy, 22.1% at <3 months pre-pregnancy and 13.4% during pregnancy. Compared with visits during pregnancy, RR of BV was 1.65 (95% CI: 1.00 to 2.71; p=0.05) at visits <3 months pre-pregnancy, 0.97 (95% CI: 0.62 to 1.52; p=0.90) at visits 3-12 months pre-pregnancy and 0.82 (95% CI: 0.44 to 1.53; p=0.53) at visits 12 months pre-pregnancy. An adjusted analysis including age, income, residence, date of first sex, recent sexual activity and positive sexually transmitted infection test resulted in small changes in risk estimates, with adjusted RR of BV of 1.66 (95% CI: 1.04 to 2.67; p=0.04) at visits <3 months pre-pregnancy compared with visits during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS BV risk during pregnancy was lower than during the immediate pre-pregnancy period. Hormonal changes in pregnancy may reduce BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda Oluoch
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Tapia
- Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Edinah Casmir
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - L Makena
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Stacy Selke
- Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Melody Wang
- Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Bhavna Chohan
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Laura Sycuro
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases; Obstetrics and Gynecology; Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anna Wald
- Medicine, Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nelly Mugo
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Alison Roxby
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Global Health, Medicine, Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Davis A, Crawley A, Ashmore M, Landers SE, Pathela P. Sociodemographic and Behavioral Predictors of Recurrent Bacterial Vaginosis Among Sexual Health Clinic Patients in New York City From 2014 to 2018. Sex Transm Dis 2023; 50:645-651. [PMID: 37432999 PMCID: PMC10527966 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is associated with adverse reproductive outcomes, and recurrence is common. We examined factors associated with BV recurrence using electronic medical record data for patients attending New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene sexual health clinics from 2014 to 2018. METHODS Clinician-diagnosed BV was defined using a clinical BV diagnosis code based on Amsel criteria. Recurrent BV was defined as any BV diagnosis occurring more than 30 days after the previous diagnosis. Adjusted hazard ratios (AHRs) for the relationship between potential risk factors and recurrent BV were estimated using conditional gap-time models. RESULTS The data set contained 14,858 patients with at least one BV diagnosis. Of these, 46.3% (n = 6882) had at least 1 follow-up visit to a sexual health clinic between January 2014 and December 2018. Of those with a follow-up visit, 53.9% (n = 3707) had ≥1 recurrent BV episode, with 33.7% (n = 2317) experiencing recurrence within 3 months. In the multivariable model, using a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD; AHR, 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14-1.49) or copper IUD (AHR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.01-1.37), having a history of trichomonas (AHR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.12-1.36), and being non-Hispanic Black (AHR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.04-1.18) were associated with a higher risk of BV recurrence, whereas using non-IUD hormonal contraception was associated with reduced risk (AHR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.80-0.98). CONCLUSIONS Risk of BV recurrence was increased among patients using an IUD, whereas it was reduced in patients using non-IUD hormonal contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alissa Davis
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Addie Crawley
- Bureau of Hepatitis, HIV, and Sexually Transmitted Infections, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mary Ashmore
- Bureau of Public Health Clinics, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sara E. Landers
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Preeti Pathela
- Bureau of Hepatitis, HIV, and Sexually Transmitted Infections, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, NY, USA
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Muzny CA, Sobel JD. Understanding and Preventing Recurring Bacterial Vaginosis: Important Considerations for Clinicians. Int J Womens Health 2023; 15:1317-1325. [PMID: 37581202 PMCID: PMC10423565 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s383333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection worldwide. It is associated with an increased risk of acquisition of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as pelvic inflammatory disease and adverse birth outcomes. During BV, a polymicrobial biofilm forms on the surface of the vaginal mucosa. However, the exact etiology of BV remains controversial which has impeded significant advances in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Despite 30-day cure rates approaching 80% in BV-infected women treated with 7 days of oral metronidazole, recurrence within 12 months is common. This article provides a current review of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of recurrent BV for practicing clinicians who commonly see women with this recurrent vaginal infection. Regarding management, we focus primarily on antimicrobial measures that may be effective. Future areas of research in this field are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina A Muzny
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jack D Sobel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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Zubair R, Mughal S, Rathi S, Ejaz R. Exploring the Efficacy of ZB-06 Vaginal Biofilm as a Novel Treatment for Recurrent Bacterial Vaginosis. J Midlife Health 2023; 14:230-232. [PMID: 38312767 PMCID: PMC10836437 DOI: 10.4103/jmh.jmh_119_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to investigate the efficacy of ZB-06 vaginal biofilm as a novel treatment for recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV is a prevalent vaginal infection that primarily affects women of reproductive age and is linked to adverse health outcomes. Biofilm production allows bacteria to cling to the vaginal epithelium, making antibiotics harder to penetrate and treat the illness efficiently. ZB-06 is a vaginal biofilm inhibitor that may dissolve the biofilm generated by the bacteria causing BV, enhancing antibiotic therapy efficacy and lowering the risk of recurrence. The current literature on BV, biofilm formation, and the possible function of ZB-06 as a therapy option for recurrent BV is reviewed in this article. More research is needed to determine ZB-06's safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rooja Zubair
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Saddar, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sanila Mughal
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Saddar, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sushma Rathi
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Saddar, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Roshanay Ejaz
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Saddar, Karachi, Pakistan
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Abbe C, Mitchell CM. Bacterial vaginosis: a review of approaches to treatment and prevention. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1100029. [PMID: 37325243 PMCID: PMC10264601 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1100029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common cause of vaginitis worldwide and is associated with serious reproductive health outcomes, including increased risk of preterm birth, sexually transmitted infections, and pelvic inflammatory disease. The current and only FDA-approved treatment regimens for BV are antibiotics, such as metronidazole and clindamycin. Antibiotics provide a short-term cure for bacterial vaginosis; however, fail to provide a consistent long-term cure for many women. Fifty to eighty percent of women experience a BV recurrence within a year of completing antibiotic treatment. This may be because after antibiotic treatment, beneficial strains of Lactobacillus, such as L. crispatus, do not recolonize the vagina. In the absence of an effective long-term cure, patients, providers, and researchers are exploring different approaches to treatment and prevention, resulting in a rapid evolution of perspectives on BV pathogenesis and approaches to management. Current areas of investigation for BV management include probiotics, vaginal microbiome transplantation, pH modulation, and biofilm disruption. Behavioral modifications that may help include smoking cessation, condom use and hormonal contraception. Additional strategies considered by many people include dietary modification, non-medical vaginally applied products, choice of lubricant, and treatments from medical practices outside of allopathic medicine. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and up to date outline of the landscape of ongoing and potential treatment and prevention strategies for BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Abbe
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, United States
| | - Caroline M. Mitchell
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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FSRH Guideline (March 2023) Intrauterine contraception. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 49:1-142. [PMID: 37188461 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2023-iuc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
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An Integrative Review of the Relationship Between Intrauterine Devices and Bacterial Vaginosis. Nurs Womens Health 2023; 27:141-151. [PMID: 36803608 DOI: 10.1016/j.nwh.2023.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between intrauterine devices (IUDs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV) through an integrative review of the current literature. DATA SOURCES CINAHL, MEDLINE, Health Source, Evidence-Based Medicine's Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched. STUDY SELECTION Cross-sectional, case-control, cohort, quasi-experimental, and randomized controlled trials examining copper (Cu-IUD) and levonorgestrel (LNG-IUD) use in reproductive- age users with BV occurrence confirmed with Amsel's criteria or Nugent scoring were included. Articles included were published in the past 10 years. DATA EXTRACTION Fifteen studies met criteria, after an initial search identified 1,140 potential titles, and two reviewers assessed 62 full-text articles for inclusion. DATA SYNTHESIS Data were categorized into three groups: retrospective descriptive cross-sectional studies identifying point prevalence of BV among IUD users; prospective analytic studies examining BV incidence and prevalence among Cu-IUD users; and prospective analytic studies examining BV incidence and prevalence among LNG-IUD users. CONCLUSION Synthesis and comparison of studies were difficult because of disparate study designs, sample sizes, comparator groups, and inclusion criteria for individual studies. Synthesis of data from cross-sectional studies showed that all IUD users combined may have an increased point prevalence of BV compared with non-IUD users. These studies did not delineate LNG-IUDs from Cu-IUDs. Findings from cohort and experimental studies suggest a possible increase in BV occurrence among Cu-IUD users. Evidence is lacking to show an association between LNG-IUD use and BV.
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Mau K, Lewis N. Evaluating Vaginal Discharge: Distinguishing Normal Physiological Discharge, Vaginitis, and Cervicitis. J Nurse Pract 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nurpra.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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Muzny CA, Sobel JD. The Role of Antimicrobial Resistance in Refractory and Recurrent Bacterial Vaginosis and Current Recommendations for Treatment. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:500. [PMID: 35453251 PMCID: PMC9024683 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11040500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV), the most common cause of vaginal discharge, is characterized by a shift in the vaginal microbiota from Lactobacillus species dominance to a diverse array of facultative and strict anaerobic bacteria which form a multi-species biofilm on vaginal epithelial cells. The rate of BV recurrence after therapy is high, often >60%. The BV biofilm itself likely contributes to recurrent and refractory disease after treatment by reducing antimicrobial penetration. However, antimicrobial resistance in BV-associated bacteria, including those both within the biofilm and the vaginal canal, may be the result of independent, unrelated bacterial properties. In the absence of new, more potent antimicrobial agents to eradicate drug-resistant pathogenic vaginal microbiota, treatment advances in refractory and recurrent BV have employed new strategies incorporating combination therapy. Such strategies include the use of combination antimicrobial regimens as well as alternative approaches such as probiotics and vaginal fluid transfer. Our current recommendations for the treatment of refractory and recurrent BV are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina A. Muzny
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Jack D. Sobel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA;
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Abstract
Up to 50% of women receiving first-line antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis (BV) experience recurrence within 12 weeks. Evidence suggests that reinfection from an untreated regular sexual partner contributes to recurrence. We conducted a pilot study of 34 heterosexual couples to describe the impact of concurrent partner treatment on the composition of the genital microbiota over a 12-week period. We also determined the acceptability and tolerability of concurrent partner treatment and obtained preliminary estimates of the efficacy of the intervention to inform a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Women received first-line antibiotic treatment for BV (i.e., oral metronidazole or intravaginal clindamycin), and their male partner received oral metronidazole, 400 mg, and 2% clindamycin cream applied topically to penile skin, both twice daily for 7 days. The genital microbiota was characterized at three anatomical sites (women, vaginal; men, cutaneous penile and first-pass urine [representing the urethra]) using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Immediately posttreatment, concurrent partner treatment significantly reduced the abundance of BV-associated bacteria (false-discovery rate [FDR] corrected P value < 0.05) and altered the overall microbiota composition of all three anatomical sites (P = 0.001). Suppression of BV-associated bacteria was sustained in the majority (81%) of women over the 12-week period (FDR P value < 0.05), despite BV-associated bacteria reemerging at both genital sites in men. In this cohort of women at high risk for recurrence, five recurred within 12 weeks of treatment (17%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6 to 34%). Importantly, men tolerated and adhered to combination therapy. Our findings provide support for an RCT of combined oral and topical male partner treatment for BV. IMPORTANCE Recurrence of BV following standard treatment is unacceptably high. Posttreatment recurrence is distressing for women, and it imposes a considerable burden on the health care system. Recurrences result in multiple presentations to clinical services and repeated antibiotic use, and the associated obstetric and gynecological sequelae are significant. New treatments to improve long-term BV cure are urgently needed. Here, we used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate changes in the microbiota composition at three genital sites (vagina, penile skin, and male urethra) of heterosexual couples undergoing concurrent partner treatment for bacterial vaginosis (BV). We found that concurrent partner treatment immediately and significantly altered the composition of the genital microbiota of both partners, with a reduction in BV-associated bacteria seen at all three sites. BV cure at 12 weeks posttreatment was higher than expected. These microbiological data provide evidence for continued investigation of partner treatment as a strategy to improve BV cure.
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Schwebke JR, Lensing SY, Lee J, Muzny CA, Pontius A, Woznicki N, Aguin T, Sobel JD. Treatment of Male Sexual Partners of Women With Bacterial Vaginosis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e672-e679. [PMID: 33383580 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to determine if treatment of male sexual partners of women with recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV) with oral metronidazole 2×/day for 7 days (ie, multidose metronidazole) significantly decreased BV recurrence rates in the female. METHODS This was a multicenter, 2-arm, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Women with recurrent BV and current diagnosis of BV by Amsel and Nugent were enrolled. Multidose metronidazole for 7 days was dispensed to women. Male partners were randomized to placebo versus multidose metronidazole for 7 days and asked to refrain from unprotected sex for 14 days. Female follow-up visits were conducted at day 21 and 8 and 16 weeks. Male follow-up visits occurred at days 14-21. BV cure was defined as 0-2 Amsel criteria and Nugent score 0-6 in the female partner with the primary endpoint at 16 weeks. RESULTS 214 couples were enrolled. In the intent-to-treat population, there was no significant difference between treatment arms for the primary outcome. BV treatment failure occurred in 81% and 80% of women in the metronidazole and placebo arms through the third follow-up visit, respectively (P > .999). However, women whose male partners adhered to study medication were less likely to fail treatment (adjusted relative risk, .85; 95% CI, .73-.99; P = .035). This finding persisted in post hoc comparisons in the metronidazole arm. CONCLUSIONS Overall, this study did not find that male partner treatment with multidose metronidazole significantly reduces BV recurrence in female partners, although women whose partners adhered to multidose metronidazole were less likely to fail treatment. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION (NCT02209519).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane R Schwebke
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Shelly Y Lensing
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Jeannette Lee
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Christina A Muzny
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Angela Pontius
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Nicole Woznicki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Tina Aguin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Jack D Sobel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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16
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Dabee S, Passmore JAS, Heffron R, Jaspan HB. The Complex Link between the Female Genital Microbiota, Genital Infections, and Inflammation. Infect Immun 2021; 89:e00487-20. [PMID: 33558324 PMCID: PMC8091093 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00487-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The female genital tract microbiota is part of a complex ecosystem influenced by several physiological, genetic, and behavioral factors. It is uniquely linked to a woman's mucosal immunity and plays a critical role in the regulation of genital inflammation. A vaginal microbiota characterized by a high abundance of lactobacilli and low overall bacterial diversity is associated with lower inflammation. On the other hand, a more diverse microbiota is linked to high mucosal inflammation levels, a compromised genital epithelial barrier, and an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections and other conditions. Several bacterial taxa such as Gardnerella spp., Prevotella spp., Sneathia spp., and Atopobium spp. are well known to have adverse effects; however, the definitive cause of this microbial dysbiosis is yet to be fully elucidated. The aim of this review is to discuss the multiple ways in which the microbiota influences the overall genital inflammatory milieu and to explore the causes and consequences of this inflammatory response. While there is abundant evidence linking a diverse genital microbiota to elevated inflammation, understanding the risk factors and mechanisms through which it affects genital health is essential. A robust appreciation of these factors is important for identifying effective prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smritee Dabee
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jo-Ann S Passmore
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- CAPRISA Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Service, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Heather B Jaspan
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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17
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Vodstrcil LA, Plummer EL, Doyle M, Fairley CK, McGuiness C, Bateson D, Hocking JS, Law MG, Petoumenos K, Donovan B, Chow EPF, Bradshaw CS. Treating male partners of women with bacterial vaginosis (StepUp): a protocol for a randomised controlled trial to assess the clinical effectiveness of male partner treatment for reducing the risk of BV recurrence. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:834. [PMID: 33176727 PMCID: PMC7661182 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05563-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is estimated to affect 1 in 3 women globally and is associated with obstetric and gynaecological sequelae. Current recommended therapies have good short-term efficacy but 1 in 2 women experience BV recurrence within 6 months of treatment. Evidence of male carriage of BV-organisms suggests that male partners may be reinfecting women with BV-associated bacteria (henceforth referred to as BV-organisms) and impacting on the efficacy of treatment approaches solely directed to women. This trial aims to determine the effect of concurrent male partner treatment for preventing BV recurrence compared to current standard of care. METHODS StepUp is an open-label, multicentre, parallel group randomised controlled trial for women diagnosed with BV and their male partner. Women with clinical-BV defined using current gold standard diagnosis methods (≥3 Amsel criteria and Nugent score (NS) = 4-10) and with a regular male partner will be assessed for eligibility, and couples will then be consented. All women will be prescribed oral metronidazole 400 mg twice daily (BID) for 7 days, or if contraindicated, a 7-day regimen of topical vaginal 2% clindamycin. Couples will be randomised 1:1 to either current standard of care (female treatment only), or female treatment and concurrent male partner treatment (7 days of combined antibiotics - oral metronidazole tablets 400 mg BID and 2% clindamycin cream applied topically to the glans penis and upper shaft [under the foreskin if uncircumcised] BID). Couples will be followed for up to 12 weeks to assess BV status in women, and assess the adherence, tolerability and acceptability of male partner treatment. The primary outcome is BV recurrence defined as ≥3 Amsel criteria and NS = 4-10 within 12 weeks of enrolment. The estimated sample size is 342 couples, to detect a 40% reduction in BV recurrence rates from 40% in the control group to 24% in the intervention group within 12 weeks. DISCUSSION Current treatments directed solely to women result in unacceptably high rates of BV recurrence. If proven to be effective the findings from this trial will directly inform the development of new treatment strategies to impact on BV recurrence. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial was prospectively registered on 12 February 2019 on the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12619000196145, Universal Trial Number: U1111-1228-0106, https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=376883&isReview=true ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka A Vodstrcil
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
| | - Erica L Plummer
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Michelle Doyle
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Colette McGuiness
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Deborah Bateson
- Family Planning New South Wales, Ashfield, 2131, Australia
- Discipline of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2006, Australia
| | - Jane S Hocking
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia
| | - Matthew G Law
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Kathy Petoumenos
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Basil Donovan
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Eric P F Chow
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia.
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