Bacterial vaginosis and contraceptive methods.

UNLABELLED: OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate if bacterial vaginosis is associated with the use of specific contraceptives.

METHODS

The study population consisted of 1314 women attending for periodical preventive examinations at our gynecology unit at the II Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the University 'La Sapienza' in Rome. The patient's history and any current genital symptom were recorded on a structured protocol. Current users of contraceptives were compared with non-users. The chi(2) test and the t-test were used in the statistical analysis; a stepwise logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the simultaneous effect of more than one variable and to identify for possible confounding factors.

RESULTS

Both oral contraceptive and condom use showed a significant protective effect against bacterial vaginosis. Our results also showed a significant increase of BV among IUD users, either before or after adjustments.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed a significant negative association between BV and OC and condom use, respectively, and a significant positive association between BV and IUD use. Therefore, we suggest that it is advisable to carry out a systematic microscopic evaluation in order to identify BV for IUD users.