International Journal of Women's Health (Aug 2023)
Understanding and Preventing Recurring Bacterial Vaginosis: Important Considerations for Clinicians
Abstract
Christina A Muzny,1 Jack D Sobel2 1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA; 2Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USACorrespondence: Christina A Muzny, Associate Professor of Medicine, Obstetrics/Gynecology, & Epidemiology, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, ZRB 240; 703 19th Street South, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA, Tel +1 (205) 975-3298, Fax +1 (205) 975-7764, Email [email protected]: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection worldwide. It is associated with an increased risk of acquisition of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as pelvic inflammatory disease and adverse birth outcomes. During BV, a polymicrobial biofilm forms on the surface of the vaginal mucosa. However, the exact etiology of BV remains controversial which has impeded significant advances in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Despite 30-day cure rates approaching 80% in BV-infected women treated with 7 days of oral metronidazole, recurrence within 12 months is common. This article provides a current review of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of recurrent BV for practicing clinicians who commonly see women with this recurrent vaginal infection. Regarding management, we focus primarily on antimicrobial measures that may be effective. Future areas of research in this field are also discussed.Keywords: bacterial vaginosis, recurrent, vaginal infection
