Abstract
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.
Keywords:
bacterial vaginosis; candida albicans; hygiene; sexual behavior; disbiosis
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