Antimicrobial effect of chlorhexidine on bacteria of groin, perineum and vagina.

The antimicrobial effects of two chlorhexidine preparations, Hibiclens and Hibitane Tincture, were evaluated in 154 obstetric patients. Both agents produced bacterial kills of over 99% on skin bacteria of groin and perineum ten and 30 minutes after their application. Five minutes after vaginal cleansing with Hibiclens more than 99% of bacteria originally present were destroyed. Even though both preparations proved to be potent bactericidal agents, Hibitane Tincture cannot be recommended as a perigenital antiseptic since it causes vulvar irritation due to its high isopropanol content. With Hibiclens application to groin and perineal skin no side effects were observed. In one of 51 patients treated vaginally with Hibiclens a rather strong burning sensation occurred, without any aftereffect. Hibiclens seems to be a promising antiseptic for obstetric and gynecologic patients.