Does Contraceptive Method Influence the Vaginal Microbiome?

The relation between the vaginal microbiome and use of hormonal contraception is not well understood; however, as estrogen can stimulate colonization by beneficial lactobacilli, combined oral contraceptives (COCs) might lower risk for bacterial vaginosis (BV). Investigators analyzed vaginal swabs from 682 women (age range, 18–44) who were using a single method of birth control. Bacteria were identified with 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplification.

Compared with women using condoms or levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine devices, those using COCs or depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) were less likely to be colonized with bacteria associated with BV (e.g., BVAB-1, Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella). However, only women using COC's were mor…