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Microflora changes with the use of a vaginal microbicide
Jennifer G Clarke1, Jeffrey F Peipert, Sharon L Hillier
1Division of Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brown University School of Medicine, Women and Infants Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
|May 2, 2002
Summary
BufferGel did not alter Lactobacillus species frequency but decreased hydrogen peroxide-producing lactobacilli. This vaginal microbicide showed no clinically significant impact on Lactobacillus colonization in women.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Vaginal Health
- HIV Prevention Research
Background:
- Rising HIV transmission rates in women necessitate effective, user-controlled microbicides.
- Ideal microbicides should be safe, convenient, and minimally disruptive to the vaginal ecosystem.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of BufferGel on vaginal microflora, focusing on Lactobacillus species.
- To evaluate changes in specific bacterial populations following BufferGel application.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study design.
- Vaginal application of BufferGel once or twice daily for 14 days.
- Analysis of vaginal flora composition before and after BufferGel use in low-risk women.
Main Results:
- No significant change in the overall frequency of Lactobacillus species was observed.
- A statistically significant decrease in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-producing lactobacilli occurred (4.9 x 107 to 1.1 x 107 cfu).
- Significant shifts in vaginal microbiota: increase in facultative gram-negative rods (27% to 65%) and decrease in obligate anaerobes (62% to 38%).
Conclusions:
- BufferGel use for 14 days did not result in clinically significant changes to Lactobacillus colonization.
- The study indicates a specific impact on H2O2-producing lactobacilli and overall microbial balance.