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An intrauterine device as a possible cause of change in the microbial flora of the female genital system
Author(s) -
Kaliterna Vanja,
KučišecTepeš Nastja,
Pejković Lidija,
Zavorović Srđan,
Petrović Sanja,
Barišić Zvonimir
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
journal of obstetrics and gynaecology research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.597
H-Index - 50
eISSN - 1447-0756
pISSN - 1341-8076
DOI - 10.1111/j.1447-0756.2010.01480.x
Subject(s) - medicine , ureaplasma urealyticum , intrauterine device , obstetrics , asymptomatic , genitourinary system , population , gynecology , vaginal flora , sex organ , family planning , physiology , research methodology , microbiology and biotechnology , biology , mycoplasma , environmental health , genetics , bacterial vaginosis
Aim: An intrauterine device (IUD), used by millions of women worldwide, is one of the most efficient methods of contraception. The goal of our study was to compare a group of women using the IUD to a control group. Material & Methods: The survey included 236 women of fertile age from gynaecological practices in the area of Split and Dalmatia County, Croatia. The subjects were divided into two groups: IUD users and a control group (women not using any contraception methods). Sampling, transportation, sample processing in the laboratory and interpretation of results were conducted using standard microbiological procedures and methods. Results: Opportunistic bacteria were statistically more frequently isolated among IUD users ( P < 0.001). The most frequently isolated bacteria in both groups were Escherichia coli and Ureaplasma urealyticum with significantly higher rates in IUD users ( P < 0.001). Both colonization and infection had higher rates in IUD users ( P < 0.001). There were no significant differences either in the frequency of bacteria isolation regarding different IUD types ( P = 0.93), or in relation to duration of IUD use ( P = 0.67). Conclusions: Based on the data in our study IUD users have an increased chance of developing a cervical infection caused by the bacteria Escherichia coli and Ureaplasma urealyticum . Therefore, before IUD insertion women should be screened and treated for asymptomatic vaginal or cervical infections to prevent possible serious IUD‐associated infections.