Comparison of the influence of spermicidal and non-spermicidal contraception on bacterial vaginosis, candidal infection and inflammation of the vagina--a preliminary study.

This preliminary study compared the signs, symptoms and prevalence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and candidal infections in women using spermicides, with those using other forms of contraception, to establish whether nonoxynol-9 had any therapeutic value against BV or gave rise to vaginal candidiasis and inflammation. Overall results showed that the prevalence of BV in non-spermicide users was 35/113 (31%) but was significantly less in spermicide users, 10/66 (15%), P < 0.05. Nonoxynol-9 was not associated with increased isolation of Candida albicans, which was found in 16/113 (14%) of non-spermicide users, and in 8/66 (12%) of those using spermicides, P > 0.1. Vaginal inflammation and discharge were significantly less in spermicide users, 19/66 (29%) than in the non-spermicide group, 50/113 (44%), P < 0.05. Nonoxynol-9 contraception was associated with a significantly reduced prevalence of BV, but not with increased candidiasis or vaginal inflammation.