Habits of Genital Hygiene and Sexual Activity among Women with Bacterial Vaginosis and/or Vulvovaginal Candidiasis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate genital hygiene among women with and without bacterial vaginosis (BV) and/or vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). METHODS: A cross-sectional study of reproductive-aged women who underwent gynecological and laboratory tests and fulfilled a genital hygiene questionnaire. RESULTS: This study evaluated 166 healthy controls and 141 women diagnosed with either BV (n = 72), VVC (n = 61), or both (n = 8). The use of intimate soap and moist wipes after urination was more frequent among healthy women (p = 0.042 and 0.032, respectively). Compared to controls, bactericidal soap was more used by women with BV (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: Some hygiene habits were associated to BV and/or VVC. Clinical trials should address this important issue in women's health.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a higiene genital de mulheres com e sem vaginose bacteriana (VB) e/ou candidíase vulvovaginal (CVV). MéTODOS: Estudo transversal com mulheres em idade reprodutiva submetidas a exames ginecológicos e laboratoriais e preenchimento de questionário de higiene genital. RESULTADOS: Este estudo avaliou 166 controles saudáveis e 141 mulheres com diagnóstico de VB (n = 72), VVC (n = 61) ou ambas (n = 8). O uso de sabonete íntimo e lenços umedecidos após a micção foram hábitos mais frequentes entre mulheres saudáveis (p = 0,042 e 0,032, respectivamente). Em comparação com os controles, o sabonete bactericida foi mais usado por mulheres com VB (p = 0,05). CONCLUSãO: Alguns hábitos de higiene foram associados à VB e/ou VVC. Os ensaios clínicos devem abordar esta questão importante na saúde da mulher.

Ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block for surgical treatment of endometriosis: case report.

Quadratus lumborum block (QLB) is a technique that is not widely applied for gynecological surgery. Endometriosis affects 10% of the female population and chronic pelvic pain is one of the most prevalent symptoms. Laparoscopic surgery for removal of endometriosis may present a long intra-operative duration and this technique might improve postoperative pain control. We described a case report of a patient submitted to general anesthesia associated to bilateral QLB for pelvic endometriosis. QLB was an adjuvant anesthetic technique for endometriosis, providing somatic and visceral analgesia. However, prospective studies are needed to identify the standard dosage and total duration of analgesia.

The influence of genitalis odors to women's life / A influência dos odores de genitais na vida da mulher

Objective: To study current knowledge about genital odors by narrative review and suggest a scientifically validated approach to the problem. Methods: Narrative review taking into account articles published in the last 15 years. Results: Vaginal infections and/or dysbioses are the main causes of bad genital odor, with bacterial vaginosis (BV) being the most frequent finding. The change in the body's smell can be caused by several factors that include everything from food to stress. As the cases of vaginal dysbioses are becoming more and more frequent and the treatments usually recommended do not always solve the problem, the use of vaginal acidifiers has become more recurrent to rebalance the vulvovaginal pH. Despite this, there is not yet a scientifically validated approach to identifying the cause of the odor. Conclusion: Female genital malodor affects women's quality of life and should be investigated and treated accordingly

Objetivo: Estudar por revisão narrativa os conhecimentos atuais sobre odores genitais e sugerir uma forma de abordagem do problema que seja cientificamente validada. Métodos: Revisão narrativa levando em conta artigos publicados nos últimos 15 anos. Resultados: As infecções e/ou disbioses vaginais são as principais causas do mau odor genital, sendo principalmente a vaginose bacteriana (VB) o achado mais frequente. A alteração no cheiro do corpo pode ser provocada por uma série de fatores que incluem desde a alimentação até o estresse. Como a ocorrência de casos de disbioses vaginais vem se tornando cada vez mais frequente e os tratamentos habitualmente recomendados nem sempre resolvem o problema, vem se tornando mais recorrente o uso de acidificantes vaginais com a finalidade de reequilibrar o pH vulvovaginal. Apesar disso, não há ainda um forma de abordagem e de identificação da causa do odor que seja cientificamente validada. Conclusão: O mau odor genital feminino afeta a qualidade de vida das mulheres e deve ser investigado e tratado adequadamente.

Antifungal (oral and vaginal) therapy for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis: a systematic review protocol.

INTRODUCTION: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is frequent in women worldwide and usually responds rapidly to topical or oral antifungal therapy. However, some women develop recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC), which is arbitrarily defined as four or more episodes every year. RVVC is a debilitating, long-term condition that can severely affect the quality of life of women. Most VVC is diagnosed and treated empirically and women frequently self-treat with over-the-counter medications that could contribute to an increase in the antifungal resistance. The effective treatment of RVVC has been a challenge in daily clinical practice. This review aims to assess the efficacy of antifungal agents administered orally or intravaginally for the treatment of RVVC, in order to define clinical practices that will impact on the reduction of the morbidity and antifungal resistance. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A comprehensive search of the following databases will be carried out: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (Virtual Health Library)/Biblioteca Regional de Medicina (Regional Library of Medicine) (BVS/BIREME), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and in the clinical trials databases (www.trialscentral.org; www.controlled-trials.com; www.clinicaltrials.gov). The risk of bias will be assessed according to the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. We will perform data synthesis using the Review Manager (RevMan) software V.5.2.3. To assess heterogeneity, we will compute the I2 statistic. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study will be a review of published data and it is not necessary to obtain ethical approval. Findings of this systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42018093817.

Daily genital cares of female gynecologists: a descriptive study.

INTRODUCTION: Genital hygiene can play an essential role in avoiding vulvovaginal discomfort and preventing infections. The scientific evidence on best practices on genital hygiene is scarce, and without doubt, gynecologists should be the best person to discuss and guide the subject. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the general genital female gynecologist hygiene. METHODS: This descriptive analytic study identified genital hygiene and sexual practices of 220 female gynecologists, through a questionnaire with 60 self-answered questions. The data were analyzed and presented using frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation. RESULTS: The studied population was constituted by middle age (37.3 years) and white (71.3%) female gynecologists. More than a half (53.6%) declared spending over 10 hours a day away from home and complained of vaginal discharge in 48.1% of the cases. Regular vulvovaginal hygiene: 17.8% reported washing genitals once a day and 52% twice a day. The use of dry paper alone was reported in 66.4% post urination and 78.5% post-evacuation. Using running water and soap was practiced by 25.9% and 21.5% respectively. Vulvovaginal hygiene related to sex: More than half of them had intercourse 1-3 times a week, and 37.4% and 24.1% had frequent oral sex and eventually anal sexof the participants, respectively. Genital hygiene before sex was positive in 52.7% of the subjects and, post-sex hygiene in 78.5% of them. CONCLUSION: Genital hygiene habits of female gynecologists can be improved, despite the high grade of scientific knowledge they hold.

Daily genital cares of female gynecologists: a descriptive study

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION: Genital hygiene can play an essential role in avoiding vulvovaginal discomfort and preventing infections. The scientific evidence on best practices on genital hygiene is scarce, and without doubt, gynecologists should be the best person to discuss and guide the subject. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the general genital female gynecologist hygiene. METHODS: This descriptive analytic study identified genital hygiene and sexual practices of 220 female gynecologists, through a questionnaire with 60 self-answered questions. The data were analyzed and presented using frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation. RESULTS: The studied population was constituted by middle age (37.3 years) and white (71.3%) female gynecologists. More than a half (53.6%) declared spending over 10 hours a day away from home and complained of vaginal discharge in 48.1% of the cases. Regular vulvovaginal hygiene: 17.8% reported washing genitals once a day and 52% twice a day. The use of dry paper alone was reported in 66.4% post urination and 78.5% post-evacuation. Using running water and soap was practiced by 25.9% and 21.5% respectively. Vulvovaginal hygiene related to sex: More than half of them had intercourse 1-3 times a week, and 37.4% and 24.1% had frequent oral sex and eventually anal sexof the participants, respectively. Genital hygiene before sex was positive in 52.7% of the subjects and, post-sex hygiene in 78.5% of them. Conclusion: Genital hygiene habits of female gynecologists can be improved, despite the high grade of scientific knowledge they hold.

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO: A higiene genital pode desempenhar um papel importante na prevenção de desconfortos vulvovaginais e infecções. Evidências científicas sobre as melhores práticas em higiene genital são escassas, e o ginecologista, sem dúvida, é a melhor pessoa para discutir e orientar o assunto. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a higiene genital feminina usual de médicas ginecologistas. MÉTODOS: Estudo analítico descritivo que identificou higiene genital e práticas sexuais de 220 ginecologistas por meio de um questionário com 60 perguntas autorrespondidas. Os dados foram analisados e apresentados por frequência, porcentagem, média e desvio padrão. Resultados: A população estudada consistiu de médicas ginecologistas femininas brancas (71,3%) com idade média de 37,3 anos. Mais da metade (53,6%) relatou ficar fora de suas casas por períodos superiores a 10 horas por dia e queixaram-se de descarga vaginal em 48,1% dos casos. Higiene vulvovaginal regular: 17,8% relataram lavar os genitais uma vez por dia e 52%, duas vezes por dia. O uso apenas de papel (seco) foi relatado em 66,4% dos casos após micção e em 78,5% após a evacuação. A higiene ideal com água corrente e sabão foi praticada apenas em 25,9% e 21,5%, respectivamente. Higiene vulvovaginal relacionada ao sexo: mais da metade delas relatou relações sexuais 1-3 vezes por semana, sexo oral frequente e anal eventual em 37,4% e 24,1%, respectivamente. A higiene genital pré-sexo foi relatada por 52,7% das pessoas e em 78,5% após o coito. Conclusão: Os hábitos de higiene genital dos ginecologistas femininos estão sujeitos a melhorias, mesmo considerando o alto grau de conhecimento científico que possuem.

Vaginal Inflammation: Association between Leukocyte Concentration and Levels of Immune Mediators.

PROBLEM: A wide variety of mediators are involved in inflammatory processes. However, the identity of those participating in vaginal immune responses has not been established. We correlated extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN), matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8), hyaluronan (HA), hyaluronidase-1 (Hyal-1), human ß-defensin-2 (hBD2), and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) concentrations with the extent of leukocyte infiltration into the vagina and suggest their participation in vaginal inflammation. METHODS OF STUDY: Vaginal fluid was obtained from 233 women seen at the outpatient clinic in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Campinas University, Brazil. The magnitude of vaginal inflammation was determined by the leukocyte count on vaginal smears and categorized as no inflammation (0 leukocytes/field), moderate inflammation (1-4 leukocytes/field), and intense inflammation (>4 leukocytes/field). Concentrations of EMMPRIN, MMP-8, HA, Hyal-1, hBD2, and NGAL were determined in vaginal fluid by ELISA. RESULTS: EMMPRIN, MMP-8, HA, hBD2, and NGAL concentration increased with elevated leukocyte numbers (P < 0.05), while Hyal-1 did not. EMMPRIN concentrations were correlated with HA and MMP-8 levels. CONCLUSION: EMMPRIN, MMP-8, HA, ß-defensin, and NGAL are elevated in women with vaginal inflammation.

Short-term physical therapy treatment for female urinary incontinence: a quality of life evaluation.

INTRODUCTION: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a widespread health condition and in some situations conservative treatment has been recommended. The aim of this study was to compare women's quality of life (QoL) before and after short-term physical therapy treatment. METHODS: We carried out a clinical trial involving 72 women who received an eight-session intervention based on pelvic floor electrical stimulation (PFES), pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) and behavioral training. QoL was evaluated by the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test compared the ICIQ-SF scores; the relative changes were calculated by dividing the differences by the initial score, and McNemar's χ(2) compared the questions related to the type of, possible causes of or situations related to UI (p < 0.05). RESULTS: There was a significant reduction in the frequency (p < 0.03), amount (p < 0.04) and impact (p < 0.001) of UI on QoL. The total score decreased from 14.6 ± 4.2 to 7.2 ± 4.5 (p < 0.001). All questions regarding the type of, possible causes of or situations related to UI had significantly decreased. Also, 15 women reported the 'never leaked urine' condition (p < 0.001) after treatment. CONCLUSION: A short-term physical therapy treatment based on PFES, PFMT and behavioral modifications reduced the frequency, amount and impact of UI and therefore resulted in QoL improvement.

Uterine cervical ectopy during reproductive age: cytological and microbiological findings.

Cervical ectopy is common in adolescents, pregnant women, and those taking high doses of estrogen-containing contraceptives. The majority of cases have spontaneous reversion, but some cases can be persistent. Studies suggested that the adequacy of a Pap smear could be affected and there is an increased risk cervical infections. This study is a cross-sectional study conducted from December 2009 to February 2011 with 457 women with cervical ectopy and 736 without ectopy. Cervical samples were collected in vials for analysis by ThinPrep cytology (Hologic, Marlborough, MA). The Mann-Whitney test and Fisher's exact test (95% CI) were applied. The study was approved by the ethics committee of the Federal University of Ceará. The mean ages of the study group and control group were 28.7 (±14.8) and 33.6 (±7.5) years old, respectively (P < 0.0001). Negative diagnosis for malignancy and intraepithelial lesion was present in 399 (87%) cases and 705 (96%) in the study and control groups, respectively (P < 0.0001). Shift in the flora suggestive of bacterial vaginosis (BV) was observed more frequently in the study group: 74 (16.2%) than in the control group: 86(11.7%) (P = 0.017). The differences among the other morphotypes showed no significance. The smears were atypical in 12.7% (58/457) of the patients from the study group and in 4.2% (31/736) in the control group (P < 0.001; RR = 3 [2.033-4.712]). The association between ectopy and inflammatory cytology, the presence of the shift in the flora suggestive of BV and cytological atypia is evident.

Vulvovaginitis and the treatment of asymptomatic partners: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Vulvovaginite e o tratamento de parceiros assintomáticos: uma revisão sistemática e metanálise

Treating sexual partners of women with vaginal candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis is a discussed topic. Despite the recommendations of international guidelines, doctors are still known to treat asymptomatic partners. Objective: To evaluate the influence of asymptomatic partner treatment inthe cure and recurrence of vulvovaginitis in women. Methods: The following databases were searched using Mesh terms: PubMed, Embase, SciELO and CINAHAL. The selection criteria included randomized clinical trials published from 1982 to 2012. Studies involving pregnant women were excluded.Methodological quality was assessed using Jadads scale. Review Manager 5.1 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Eight randomized clinical trials were included based on the chosen criteria: 1,088 women were enrolled. For bacterial vaginosis, the relative risk for cure was 1.00 (95%CI 0.95-1.05,p=0.13), and for recurrence 0.84 (95%CI 0.62-1.14, p=0.34). Vaginal candidiasis had a RR of 1.03 (95%CI 0.94-1.14, p=0.48) for cure, and 1.02 (95% CI0.77-1.33, p=0.91) for recurrence. Conclusion: Treatment of asymptomatic sexual partners of women with vaginal candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis does not affect the cure or recurrence rates and may increase the risk of side effects and unnecessary financial costs.

O tratamento de parceiros sexuais de mulheres com candidíase vaginal e vaginose bacteriana é um assunto muito abordado. Apesar das recomendações estabelecidas nos manuais internacionais, este tópico ainda é muito questionado por um grande número de médicos que prosseguem desobedecendo estes manuais. Objetivo: Avaliar a influência do tratamento de parceiros assintomáticos na cura e recorrência de vulvovaginite em mulheres. Métodos: Foi realizada busca com descritores específicos nas seguintes bases de dados: PubMed, Embase, SciELO e CINAHAL. No critério de seleção foram incluídos ensaios clínicos randomizados publicados no período de 1982 a 2012. Estudos envolvendo mulheres grávidas foram excluídos. Na avaliação qualitativa, utilizou-se a Escala de Jadad. A análise dos dados foi realizada por meio do programa estatístico Review Manager 5.1. Resultados:Oito ensaios clínicos randomizados foram selecionados: 1.088 mulheres foram escolhidas. Na vaginose bacteriana, o risco relativo para cura foi de 1,00(IC95% 0,95-1,05, p=0,13) e para recorrência foi de 0,84 (IC95% 0,62-1,14, p=0,34). A candidíase vaginal apresentou risco relativo de 1,03 (IC95% 0,94-1,14, p=0,48) para cura e de 1,02 (IC95% 0,77-1,33, p=0,91) para recorrência. Conclusão: O tratamento do parceiro sexual assintomático de mulheres com candidíase vaginal e vaginose bacteriana não afetaria as suas taxas de cura e recorrência, como também poderia causar efeitos colaterais e custos desnecessários.

Relação entre ducha vaginal e vaginose bacteriana, doenças sexualmente transmissíveis e infecção por HIV: uma revisão sistemática / Relationship between vaginal douching and bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted diseases and HIV infection: a systematic review

Apesar de ducha vaginal estar fortemente condenada pela maioria dos profissionais de saúde; esta prática continua a ser um hábito muito comum entre as mulheres, por diversas razões. Objetivo: Avaliar se há relação entre a prática de duchas vaginais e vaginose bacteriana, DST e HIV.Métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática e meta-análise para avaliar a relação entre a ducha vaginal e vaginose bacteriana, doenças sexualmente transmissíveis e infecção pelo HIV. Os seguintes bancos de dados foram pesquisados utilizando descritores: PubMed, Embase, Scielo e Google Scholar.Os critérios de seleção: (1) estudos prospectivos de mulheres que usam ducha vaginal; (2) mulheres com 12 anos ou mais e (3) estudos publicados de 2000a outubro de 2011. Estudos envolvendo mulheres grávidas foram excluídos. A qualidade metodológica foi avaliada usando a escala de Newcastle-Ottawa.Coleta de dados e análise: Review Manager 5.1 foi utilizado para análise estatística. Resultados: Sete estudos (2 STD, 3 vaginose bacteriana e 2 HIV)foram incluídos com base nos critérios escolhidos: 9,796 mulheres foram incluídos. A razão de risco global para a vaginose bacteriana, DST e aquisição do HIV foram, (IC95% 1,12-1,43) 1,24 (IC95% 0,94-1,32) 1,12 e (IC95% 0,92-2,01) 1,36, respectivamente. Conclusão: Há poucos estudos para verificar a associação entre a ducha vaginal e STD, VB e infecção pelo HIV. Foi encontrada uma correlação positiva entre a ducha vaginal e vaginose bacteriana, mas não para DST e infecção pelo HIV

Despite of vaginal douching has been strongly condemned by most of health care professionals; this practice remains a very common habit among women for several reasons. Objective: To assess if there is any association between vaginal douching and bacterial vaginoses, STD and HIV Methods: We conducted a systematic review and metanalysis to evaluate the relation ship between vaginal douching and bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted diseases and HIV infection. The following databases were searched using Mesh terms: PubMed, Embase, Scielo and Google Scholar. Selection criteria: (1) prospective cohort studies of women using vaginal douching; (2) women 12 years or older and (3) studies published from 2000 to October2011. Studies involving pregnant women were excluded. Methodological quality was assessed using Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Data collection and analysis:Review Manager 5.1 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Seven studies (2 STD, 3 Bacterial Vaginosis and 2 HIV) were included based on the chosen criteria: 9.796 women were enrolled. The global Risk Ratios for Bacterial Vaginosis, STD and HIV acquisition were, 1.24 (95%CI 1.12?1.43), 1.12 (95%CI0.94?1.32), and 1.36 (95%CI 0.92?2.01) respectively. Conclusion: There are few studies checking the association between vaginal douching and STD, BVand HIV infection. A weak positive correlation was found between vaginal douching and bacterial vaginosis, but not to STD and HIV infection.

[Habits and traditions of female college students related to intimate clothing, genital adornments, genital hair removal and sexual practices]. / Hábitos e costumes de mulheres universitárias quanto ao uso de roupas íntimas, adornos genitais, depilação e práticas sexuais.

PURPOSE: To describe the practices and care with the genital area of female college students. METHODS: A descriptive analytical study evaluated the habits and traditions of 364 students from the University of Campinas (Unicamp) regarding the use of underwear, body piercings, tattoos, hair removal and sexual practices. A questionnaire with 42 questions assessed the most current practices among female college students. All questions were self answered and the questionnaires, without any identification, were placed in sealed ballot boxes to ensure the confidentiality of information. The responses were tabulated in Microsoft® Excel 2007 to obtain univariate analysis. RESULTS: The mean age of the college students in the study was 21 years (SD ± 2.7), and 84% were white. The volunteers who participated in this study were from the biological science area (50%), the exact science area (29%) or the humanity area (21%). It was observed that 61.8% of the respondents wear cotton panties, but at the same time 75.4% wear tight jeans, and only 18.4% wore no panties when sleeping. Only one participant reported having had genital piercing and none of them reported tattooing. Most female college students do genital waxing, and approximately 1/3 of them do so completely. After hair removal, 2/3 apply an anti-inflammatory and/or moisturizer to the region. Only 62% use condoms and 17.6% use a lubricant during intercourse. Half of them receive oral sex, 17.9% practice anal sex and 26.6% of them report feeling pain during sexual intercourse. Vaginal discharge after intercourse was reported in 25.6% of the cases. CONCLUSION: Young female college students from Brazilian public universities have many inadequate care habits related to their genital area. They do not use genital piercing and tattoos, but report having pain during sexual intercourse and vaginal discharge after sex in a large number of cases.

Association of sanitary pads and clothing with vulvovaginitis / Associação de absorventes higiênicos íntimos e vestimentas com vulvovaginites

A oclusão vulvar e o acúmulo de umidade em decorrência do uso de absorventes higiênicos, roupas íntimas sintéticas e/ou calças justas são considerados fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de vulvovaginites (VV), contudo, esta associação ainda está mal esclarecida. Objetivo: associar a prática do uso de absorventes higiênicos e vestimentas à presença de vaginose bacteriana (VB) e/ou candidíase vaginal (CV). Métodos: estudo de corte transversal analisou o uso de absorventes e vestimentas de 307 voluntárias de 18 a 45 anos, com e sem VB e/ou CV. Um questionário de seis domínios foi aplicado individualmente às voluntárias, nos ambulatórios de um hospital universitário (Unicamp, BR). Este estudo analisou três dos seis domínios. Coletou-se material vaginal para diagnóstico microbiológico de VB (critérios de Nugent)e CV (bacterioscopia corada por Gram e cultura em meio Saboureaud). Critérios de exclusão: uso de antibióticos nos últimos 15 dias, histórico de câncer, HIV+, sífilis, doença imunossupressora. A análise estatística utilizou teste exato de Fischer e qui-quadrado, pelo EPI INF 0.5. O nível de significância considerada foi p<0,05. Resultados: Do total, 141 (46%) das mulheres foram diagnosticadas com VV. A média de idade foi de 33(+/-6,8) anos e a maior parte das mulheres era caucasiana (52%), tinha um parceiro fixo (83%) e utilizava métodos hormonais contraceptivos (64,5%). As mulheres com VV utilizaram mais calcinhas de tecido sintético (10,6 x zero), apresentaram mais ciclos menstruais (72,3 x 55,4%) que aquelas sem VV (p<0,005 e p<0,0001) e apresentaram hábitos de uso de absorventes semelhantes. Conclusão: os hábitos de uso de absorventes higiênicos não estão associados à presença de VV, já a presença de ciclos menstruais e uso de calcinhas de tecido sintético se relacionou a maior freqüência de VV.

Vulvar oclusion and moisture buildup resulting from the use of sanitary pads, synthetic underwear and/or tight pants are considered risk factors for the development of vulvovaginitis (VV), however, this association is still poorly elucidated. Objective: to associate the use of sanitary pads and clothing with the presence od bacterial vaginitis (BV) and vaginal candidiasis (VC). Methods: cross-sectional study aimed at analyzing the use of sanitary pads and clothing in 307 volunteers from 18 to 45 years old, with and without BV and/or VC. A questionnaire comprehendind six domains was applied individually to the volunteers, in an outpatient gynecology clinic at a university hospital (University of Campinas, Brazil). This study analyzed three of six domains. Vaginal material was collected for microbiologic diagnosis of BV (Nugent criteria) and VC (GRam stain and culture of the fungus in Saboureaud). Exclusion criteria were: use of antibiotics within 15 days, history of cancer, positive HIV and/or syphilis and immunosupressive disease. Statistical analysis were made with Fischer and chi-square tests, using the software EPI INFO 0.5. Significance level was set at p<0.05. Results: in total, 141 (46%) women were diagnosed with VV. The mean age was 32 (+/-6.8) years and most women were Caucasian (52%), had a steady partner (83%) and were using hormonal contraceptives (64,5%). Women with presence of VV used more panties made of synthetic fabric (10.6% x zero), had more menstrual cycles (72.3 x 55.4%) than those without VV (p<0.005 and p<0.0001) and showed patterns of sanitary pads similar to those without VV. Conclusion: habits of usage of sanitary pads is not associated with the presence of VV. Presence of menstrual cycle and use of synthetic underwear have been related with greater frequency of VV.

Hábitos e costumes de mulheres universitárias quanto ao uso de roupas íntimas, adornos genitais, depilação e práticas sexuais / Habits and traditions of female college students related to intimate clothing, genital adornments, genital hair removal and sexual practices

OBJETIVO: Descrever as práticas e cuidados com a área genital de mulheres universitárias. MÉTODOS: Estudo analítico descritivo, que analisou os hábitos e costumes de 364 estudantes de uma universidade pública do Estado de São Paulo quanto ao uso de roupas íntimas, piercings corporais, tatuagens, depilação e práticas sexuais. Um questionário com 42 perguntas avaliou as práticas habituais mais comuns das universitárias. Todas as perguntas foram autorrespondidas e os questionários, sem qualquer identificação, foram colocados em urnas lacradas para garantir o sigilo das informações. As respostas foram tabuladas em planilha Microsoft® Excel 2007 para obtenção de análise univariável. RESULTADOS: A média de idade das universitárias estudadas foi de 21 anos (DP±2,7), sendo 84% brancas. Participaram do estudo voluntárias das áreas de biológicas (50%), exatas (29%) e humanas (21%). Observou-se que 61,8% das entrevistadas usam calcinhas de algodão, porém, ao mesmo tempo, 75,4% usam calças jeans apertadas, e que somente 18,4% deixam de usar calcinha para dormir. Apenas uma participante relatou ter piercing genital e nenhuma tinha tatuagem. A maioria das universitárias faz depilação genital, sendo que aproximadamente um terço delas o faz de forma completa. Após depilar, dois terços usam produtos como anti-inflamatórios e/ou hidratantes na região. Apenas 62% usam camisinha masculina e 17,6% lubrificante na relação sexual. Metade pratica sexo oral receptor; 17,9% sexo anal e 26,6% delas relatam ter dor no ato sexual. Corrimento vaginal foi relatado após a relação sexual em 25,6% dos casos. CONCLUSÃO:Mulheres jovens de universidade pública brasileira têm muitos hábitos inadequados de cuidados relacionados à sua área genital. Não costumam usar piercings ou tatuagens genitais, mas relatam ter dor no ato sexual e corrimento vaginal após o sexo em um grande número de casos.

PURPOSE: To describe the practices and care with the genital area of female college students. METHODS: A descriptive analytical study evaluated the habits and traditions of 364 students from the University of Campinas (Unicamp) regarding the use of underwear, body piercings, tattoos, hair removal and sexual practices. A questionnaire with 42 questions assessed the most current practices among female college students. All questions were self answered and the questionnaires, without any identification, were placed in sealed ballot boxes to ensure the confidentiality of information. The responses were tabulated in Microsoft® Excel 2007 to obtain univariate analysis. RESULTS:The mean age of the college students in the study was 21 years (SD±2.7), and 84% were white. The volunteers who participated in this study were from the biological science area (50%), the exact science area (29%) or the humanity area (21%). It was observed that 61.8% of the respondents wear cotton panties, but at the same time 75.4% wear tight jeans, and only 18.4% wore no panties when sleeping. Only one participant reported having had genital piercing and none of them reported tattooing. Most female college students do genital waxing, and approximately 1/3 of them do so completely. After hair removal, 2/3 apply an anti-inflammatory and/or moisturizer to the region. Only 62% use condoms and 17.6% use a lubricant during intercourse. Half of them receive oral sex, 17.9% practice anal sex and 26.6% of them report feeling pain during sexual intercourse. Vaginal discharge after intercourse was reported in 25.6% of the cases. CONCLUSION:Young female college students from Brazilian public universities have many inadequate care habits related to their genital area. They do not use genital piercing and tattoos, but report having pain during sexual intercourse and vaginal discharge after sex in a large number of cases.

Vulvovaginitis and the treatment of asymptomatic partners: a systematic review and metanalisis

Treating sexual partners of women with vaginal candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis is an issue in debate. Despite the present recommendations of the international guidelines to not to treat the asymptomatic sexual partners, this is a frequent practice between gynecologists. Objective: evaluate the influence of treating asymptomatic sexual partner of women with recurrent vulvovaginitis. Methods: databases searched: PubMed, Embase, Scielo and CINAHAL. Selection criteria: randomized clinical trials published from 1982 to 2012 were included. Studies involving pregnant women were excluded. Methodological quality was assessed using the Jadad scale. Data collection and analysis: Review Manager 5.1 was used for statistical analysis. Results: eight randomized clinical trials were included based on the chosen criteria: 1,088 women were enrolled. For bacterial vaginosis, the RR for cure was 1.00 (95%CI: 0.95?1.05) (p = 0.13), and for recurrence 0.84 (95%CI: 0.62-1.14) (p = 0.34). Vaginal candidiasis had a RR of 1.03 (95%CI: 0.94-1.14) (p = 0.48) for cure, and 1.02 (95%CI: 0.77?1.33 p = 0.91) for recurrence. Conclusion: treatment of asymptomatic sexual partners of women with vaginal candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis does not affect the cure or recurrence rates and may increase the risk of side effects and unnecessary financial costs.

Citometria de fluxo: aplicabilidade em Ginecologia e Obstetrícia / Flow cytometry: applicability in Gynecology and Obstetrics

Os avanços tecnológicos recentes da Medicina têm oferecido colaboração substancial no diagnóstico, tratamento e prognóstico das doenças. A técnica de citometria de fluxo, largamente usada em Hematologia, Oncologia e Imunologia, vem ganhando importância na Ginecologia e Obstetrícia. Neste artigo apresentaremos uma visão geral sobre o tema, os princípios de funcionamento do citômetro e o histórico do seu surgimento, assim como as principais aplicações da citometria na saúde da mulher. Após extensa revisão realizada nas bases de dados Medline, Lilacs, Embase (descritores: Ginecologia, Obstetrícia e citometria de fluxo), além de sites e livro-texto sobre o tema, concluiu-se que a citometria de fluxo é uma técnica moderna, prática, porém de alto custo, que permite a análise de múltiplos parâmetros celulares simultaneamente e em poucos minutos. Tem grande potencial de aplicabilidade em Ginecologia e Obstetrícia e merece atenção dos profissionais para ser implementada nas rotinas diárias.

[Influence of menopausal symptoms on sexual function in middle-aged women]. / Influência dos sintomas climatéricos sobre a função sexual de mulheres de meia-idade.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of climacteric symptoms on the sexual function in middle-aged women. METHODS: A cross-sectional population study was conducted on a sample of 370 middle-aged women, aged 40 to 65 years-old, cared for at the Basic Health Units in Natal, in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. We used a questionnaire containing questions on sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral characteristics. Sexual function was evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), while the menopause symptoms by the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). RESULTS: In the studied group, 67% of the women reported risk for sexual dysfunction (FSFI≤26.5). All FSFI domains (desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain) were lower in women with risk for sexual dysfunction (p<0.001). The arousal, orgasm, and pain domains were most likely to contribute to lower FSFI scores. All somatovegetative, urogenital, and psychological MRS symptoms were more elevated in women with risk for sexual dysfunction, being significant for all comparisons (p<0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the likelihood of women with risks of sexual dysfunction to present hot flushes, depression, sexual problems, and vaginal dryness was, respectively, 2.1 (95%CI 1.2 - 3.5); 2.4 (95%CI 1.5 - 4.1); 2.3 (95%CI 1.4 - 3.8), and 2.2 (95%CI 1.3 - 3.6) times higher, respectively, compared to those without any risk. CONCLUSION: Climacteric symptoms seem to influence the sexual function in middle-aged women.

Influência dos sintomas climatéricos sobre a função sexual de mulheres de meia-idade / Influence of menopausal symptoms on sexual function in middle-aged women

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a influência dos sintomas climatéricos na função sexual de mulheres de meia-idade. MÉTODOS: Estudo populacional de corte transversal, com amostra de 370 mulheres entre 40 e 65 anos, atendidas nas Unidades Básicas de Saúde da cidade de Natal, no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil. Aplicou-se um questionário referente s características sociodemográficas, clínicas e comportamentais das mulheres. A função sexual foi avaliada pelo Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), enquanto os sintomas do climatério pelo Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). RESULTADOS: No grupo estudado, 67% das mulheres apresentaram risco de disfunção sexual (FSFI≤26,5). Todos os domínios do FSFI (desejo, excitação, lubrificação, orgasmo, satisfação e dor) apresentaram escores mais baixos nas mulheres com risco de disfunção sexual (p<0,001). Os domínos excitação, orgasmo e dor foram os que mais contribuíram para os baixos escores do FSFI. Os sintomas somatovegetativos, urogenitais e psicológicos do MRS apresentaram-se mais elevados nas mulheres com risco de disfunção sexual, sendo significativos para todas as comparações (p<0,001). A análise de regressão logística revelou que as chances de mulheres com riscos de disfunção sexual apresentarem fogachos, humor depressivo, problemas sexuais e ressecamento vaginal foram, respectivamente, 2,1 (IC95% 1,2 - 3,5); 2,4 (IC95% 1,5 - 4,1); 2,3 (IC95% 1,4 - 3,8) e 2,2 (IC95% 1,3 - 3,6) vezes maior, quando comparadas quelas sem risco. CONCLUSÃO: Os sintomas climatéricos parecem influenciar a função sexual de mulheres na meia-idade.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of climacteric symptoms on the sexual function in middle-aged women. METHODS: A cross-sectional population study was conducted on a sample of 370 middle-aged women, aged 40 to 65 years-old, cared for at the Basic Health Units in Natal, in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. We used a questionnaire containing questions on sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral characteristics. Sexual function was evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), while the menopause symptoms by the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). RESULTS: In the studied group, 67% of the women reported risk for sexual dysfunction (FSFI≤26.5). All FSFI domains (desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain) were lower in women with risk for sexual dysfunction (p<0.001). The arousal, orgasm, and pain domains were most likely to contribute to lower FSFI scores. All somatovegetative, urogenital, and psychological MRS symptoms were more elevated in women with risk for sexual dysfunction, being significant for all comparisons (p<0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the likelihood of women with risks of sexual dysfunction to present hot flushes, depression, sexual problems, and vaginal dryness was, respectively, 2.1 (95%CI 1.2 - 3.5); 2.4 (95%CI 1.5 - 4.1); 2.3 (95%CI 1.4 - 3.8), and 2.2 (95%CI 1.3 - 3.6) times higher, respectively, compared to those without any risk. CONCLUSION: Climacteric symptoms seem to influence the sexual function in middle-aged women.

The prevalence of urogenital infections in pregnant women experiencing preterm and full-term labor.

Urogenital infections are extremely prevalent during pregnancy and are an important cause of premature labor. However, the prevalence of urogenital infections during childbirth is not well known. Objective. Identify urogenital infections present at the beginning of labor in both full-term and preterm pregnancies. Study Design. Ninety-four women were admitted to the inpatient maternity clinic of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN). In total, 49 women in preterm labor and 45 women in full-term labor were included in the study, and samples of urinary, vaginal, and perianal material were collected for microbiological analysis. Results. The prevalences of general infections in the preterm labor group and the full-term labor group were 49.0% and 53.3% (P = 0.8300), respectively. Urogenital infections in the preterm and full-term labor groups included urinary tract infection in 36.7% and 22.2% of women, vaginal candidiasis in 20.4% and 28.9% of women, bacterial vaginosis in 34.7% and 28.9% of women, and group B streptococcus in 6.1% and 15.6% of women, respectively. Conclusions. Urogenital infections were prevalent in women in preterm labor and full-term labor; however, significant differences between the groups were not observed.