Related Experiment Videos
Association between diaphragm use and urinary tract infection
JAMA
|July 12, 1985
Summary
Diaphragm use significantly increases urinary tract infection (UTI) risk in women. Studies found a 2-2.5 times higher risk, linked to greater Escherichia coli colonization, independent of other factors.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Infectious Diseases
- Contraception
Background:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, particularly in women.
- Contraceptive methods may influence UTI risk.
- Diaphragm use is a potential risk factor for UTIs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between diaphragm use and the risk of developing urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- To compare UTI incidence in diaphragm users versus oral contraceptive users.
Main Methods:
- Conducted two independent studies: a case-control study and a retrospective cohort study.
- Case-control: Compared diaphragm use and vaginal flora in women with and without acute UTI.
- Cohort: Assessed UTI incidence in diaphragm users versus oral contraceptive users over 9.4 months.
Main Results:
- Both studies showed a significantly increased risk of UTI in diaphragm users (relative odds 2.0, relative risk 2.5).
- Vaginal colonization with Escherichia coli was significantly higher in diaphragm users.
- UTI incidence was 26.6 per 1,000 patient-months for diaphragm users vs. 8.9 for oral contraceptive users.
Conclusions:
- Diaphragm use is associated with a substantially higher risk of urinary tract infections.
- Increased risk is potentially linked to altered vaginal flora, specifically greater E. coli colonization.
- This association is independent of age, parity, sexual activity, or prior UTI history.