Approximately 63% of partnered, reproductive-age women globally use some form of contraception and an estimated 8% of all married women currently use the oral birth control pills. It is the most popular contraceptive method in Africa, Europe, and Oceania. However, the use of birth control pills in India is relatively low in India compared to other regions.
Oral contraceptives are used by over 100 million women worldwide and this blog gives an overview of the relationship between contraception especially oral birth control pills and vaginal microflora, particularly focusing on the incidence infection caused by yeast (candida), bacterial, and others.
Contraceptive Methods and Their Impact
Oral Birth Control Pills: Linked to an increased incidence of candidiasis. They may enhance yeast growth and influence the recurrence of candidiasis. The study indicated that about 11-12% of recurrent yest infection cases could be attributed to the use of Birth Control Pills.
Intrauterine Devices (IUD): Showed a significant increase in bacterial vaginosis and vaginal inflammation. Users also had increased E. coli colonization and higher rates of cervical erosion.
Barrier Methods: Such as the diaphragm or cervical cap, are associated with altered vaginal flora but may lead some women to prefer Oral Birth Control Pills.
Vaginal Ring and Implants: Similar microbial profiles to Oral Birth Control Pills users, with a notable reduction in vaginitis and vaginosis in those especially using the levonorgestrel-releasing implant.
Some study touched on demographic trends, indicating that teenagers tend to use Oral Birth Control Pills more than adults, while IUD usage is more common among adults.
Prevalence of Yeast Infection
About 75% of women experience at least one episode of yeast infection during their reproductive years, primarily caused by Candida species. Oral Birth Control Pills increased the incidence of candida infection and increased the recurrence of candidiasis.
Diagnosis and Treatment Considerations
Symptoms of yeast infections can be ambiguous, sometimes necessitating laboratory confirmation for accurate diagnosis. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, which may be topical or systemic. However, conventional therapies sometimes fail, particularly in women using Oral Birth Control Pills.
A recent case-control study involving 40 women indicated that use of Oral Birth Control Pills was associated with a higher frequency of Candida infections in the oral cavity. Additional risk factors for recurrent infections include diabetes, antibiotic use, high-dose oral contraceptives, and increased sexual partners.
Conclusion
The relationship between contraception and vaginal microflora is complex and multifaceted, with significant implications for women’s health. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies for recurrent infections on women taking Oral Birth Control Pills. The evidence suggests a careful consideration of contraceptive choices in women prone to recurrent vaginal infections.
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