Risk of bacterial vaginosis, Trichomonas vaginalis and Candida albicans infection among new users of combined hormonal contraception vs LNG-IUS

AbstractObjective: The study assessed the risk of bacterial vaginosis, Trichomonas vaginalis and Candida albicans infection among new users of either a combined oral contraceptive pill (COC) or the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS).Methods: This prospective observational study included 430 women, without active vaginitis at inclusion, who were divided into two groups according to their chosen method of contraception: COC group (n = 236) and LNG-IUS group (n = 194). Participants were examined for bacterial vaginosis, T. vaginalis and C. albicans infection initially and then at 6 weeks, 6 months and 12 months after the start of contraceptive use. Data were collected and statistically analysed.Results: The rates of acquisition of bacterial vaginosis, T. vaginalis and C. albicans infection during follow-up were significantly increased and comparable between the groups (p < .001) and decreased in frequency over time (p < .05). The rates of acquisition of bacterial vaginosis among COC users...