Review article

The Role of Vaginal Microbiome in Sexually Transmitted Infections

Tomislav Meštrović ; Poliklinika “Dr. Zora Profozić”

Abstract

Vaginal microbiome is a complex polymicrobial community characterized by rapid and frequent bacterial fluctuations. Changes in the vaginal ecosystem are influenced by age, race, menstrual cycles, hormonal and mechanical contraception, anxiety, smoking, hygiene, sexual habits and concomitant infections. The most important role in keeping this microenvironment stable belongs to lactobacilli, whose count is reduced in bacterial vaginosis syndrome and which are supplanted by a large number of diverse anaerobic bacterial species. A huge body of epidemiologic evidence links bacterial vaginosis with easier acquisition of sexually transmitted infections and other adverse outcomes (mainly pelvic inflammatory disease and preterm delivery). Information obtained from impending longitudinal molecular studies may create the foundation for novel strategies to prevent sexually transmitted infections based on the protective features of the vaginal microbiome.

Keywords

microbiome; vaginal flora; bacterial vaginosis; sexually transmitted infections

Hrčak ID:

89360

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/89360

Publication date:

23.1.2012.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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