[Effect of menstrual hygiene (tampons vs pads) and of the form of contraception on pH and bacterial infection of the vagina]

Abstract

In menstrual hygiene vaginal tampons are preferred. Supposedly intravaginal application causes discharge. Healthy women using pads as well as tampons were examined before, during, and after menstruation. During two menstrual cycles vaginal pH was measured, bacteriological and mycological cultures were set up. The results indicated no changes of cervical-vaginal-secretion, nor was the pH changed. Taking the used contraceptive method into consideration, we found that intrauterine devices and oral contraceptives caused most of bacterial discharge and the expected shifting to alcaline pH. No increase of vaginal fungus was noted. The use of intravaginal tampons for menstrual bleeding therefore had no ill effects.

PIP: In menstrual hygiene, vaginal tampons are preferred. Supposedly intravaginal application causes discharge. Healthy women using pads as well as tampons were examined before, during, and after menstruation. During 2 menstrual cycles, vaginal pH was measured, and bacteriological and mycological cultures were set up. The results indicated no changes of cervical vaginal secretion, nor was the pH changed. Taking the used contraceptive method into consideration, IUDs and oral contraceptives caused most of the bacterial discharge and the expected shifting to alkaline pH. No increase of vaginal fungus was noted. The use of intravaginal tampons for menstrual bleeding therefore had no ill effects.