Mobile app for pelvic floor muscle training for urinary incontinence during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of home-based pelvic floor muscle training in women with urinary incontinence, addressing the difficulties arising from social isolation due to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic by utilizing a specialized mobile app. METHODS: This randomized, single-group clinical trial aimed to assess the efficacy of pelvic floor muscle training guided by a mobile app (Diario Saúde) in women with stress urinary incontinence. Participants were instructed via telephone to engage in pelvic floor muscle training exercises twice a day for 30 days. Pre- and post-treatment, participants completed validated questionnaires regarding urinary symptoms and quality of life through telephone interviews. Additionally, treatment adherence was evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 156 women were enrolled in the study, with a mean age of 49.3±14.2 years. Significant improvements in urinary incontinence symptoms and quality of life were observed following pelvic floor muscle training guided by the mobile app (p<0.001). Notably, 74.3% of the participants reported performing the exercises with appropriate frequency. Of the participants, 62% reported either complete or substantial improvement in urinary symptoms post-treatment. CONCLUSION: This study revealed notable enhancements in stress urinary incontinence, urinary storage, and overall quality of life subsequent to pelvic floor muscle training guided by a mobile app, particularly during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The mobile app demonstrated robust acceptance and adherence among women experiencing urinary incontinence.

Investigating the role of the pelvic floor muscles in sexual function and sexual response: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) have been suggested to play a key role in sexual function and response in women. However, syntheses of the evidence thus far have been limited to interventional studies in women with pelvic pain or pelvic floor disorders, and these studies have failed to fully capture the involvement of the PFMs in a broader population. AIM: We sought to appraise the evidence regarding the role of the PFMs in sexual function/response in women without pelvic pain or pelvic floor disorders. More specifically, we examined the following: (1) effects of treatment modalities targeting the PFMs on sexual function/response, (2) associations between PFM function and sexual function/response, and (3) differences in PFM function between women with and those without sexual dysfunction. METHODS: We searched for all available studies in eight electronic databases. We included interventional studies evaluating the effects of PFM modalities on sexual outcomes, as well as observational studies investigating the association between PFM function and sexual outcomes or the differences in PFM function in women with and those without sexual dysfunction. The quality of each study was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Estimates were pooled using random-effects meta-analyses whenever possible, or a narrative synthesis of the results was provided. MAIN OUTCOMES: The main outcomes were sexual function (based on a questionnaire)/sexual response (based on physiological test), and PFM function (assessment of the PFM parameters such as strength and tone based on various methods). RESULTS: A total of 33 studies were selected, including 14 interventional and 19 observational studies, most of which (31/33) were deemed of moderate or high quality. Ten out of 14 interventional studies in women with and without sexual dysfunctions showed that PFM modalities had a significant effect on sexual function. Regarding the observational studies, a meta-analysis revealed a significant moderate association between PFM strength and sexual function (r = 0.41; 95% CI, 0.08-066). Of the 7 observational studies performed to assess sexual response, all showed that the PFMs were involved in arousal or orgasm. Conflicting results were found in the 3 studies that evaluated differences in PFM function in women with and those without sexual dysfunction. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Our results highlight the contribution of the PFMs in sexual function/response. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS: One strength of this review is the inclusion of a broad range of study designs and outcomes, allowing a thorough synthesis of evidence. However, interpretations of these data should consider risk of bias in the studies, small sample sizes, and the absence of control/comparison groups. CONCLUSION: The findings of this review support the involvement of the PFMs in sexual function/response in women without pelvic pain or pelvic dysfunction. Well-designed studies should be performed to further investigate PFM modalities as part of the management of sexual dysfunction.

Not all lasers are the same: a scoping review evaluating laser therapy for vulvodynia.

INTRODUCTION: Lasers are commonly used for treating various vaginal/vulvar conditions. To date, there is to our knowledge no available literature review on the effects of different types of lasers for the treatment of women with vulvodynia, a condition that causes chronic pain in the vulvar area. OBJECTIVES: We sought to review the literature and summarize the existing published evidence regarding the effects of lasers for the treatment of women with vulvodynia. METHODS: A scoping review with a systematic search was conducted that included studies investigating the use of laser treatment in women with vulvodynia. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Study Quality Assessment Tools were used for the quality assessment. The type of laser, effects on pain and function, and participants' perceived improvement as well as adverse events were analyzed. RESULTS: Eight studies investigating laser therapy were included in the analysis: 1 randomized controlled trial, 5 before-after studies, 1 nonrandomized intervention study, and 1 case report. Several types of laser therapies were identified, ranging from mild noninvasive photobiomodulation to more invasive ablative procedures. Of the 6 studies that included pain outcomes, 3 studies showed statistically significant improvements from baseline to follow-up, and 3 demonstrated a reduction in pain from subjectively interpreted data. Similarly, each of the 2 studies investigating sexual function also reported an improvement (based only on subjective interpretation). Of the 2 studies with a comparison group, neither study was adequately powered to detect between-group differences. Furthermore, 57%-78% of participants reported improvement, with 1 study showing a greater statistically significant improvement in the low-level laser therapy patient group compared to the sham laser group. Outcomes and adverse events varied depending on the type of laser used. CONCLUSIONS: Although these studies demonstrated some benefits of laser therapy for the treatment of vulvodynia, these findings should be interpreted with caution given the scarcity of the included studies that were robust and sufficiently powered. Future research should focus on conducting well-designed randomized controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy of different types of lasers in the treatment of vulvodynia.

Does the addition of electrical stimulation or kinesiotherapy improve outcomes of amitriptyline treatment for women with vulvodynia? A randomized clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Women diagnosed with provoked vulvodynia frequently report a great deal of frustration in achieving symptomatic relief. Physical therapy and drug treatment are among the interventions most indicated by guidelines; however, whether those modalities are effective when combined remains unclear. The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of adding a physical therapy modality compared with amitriptyline alone for the treatment of vulvodynia. METHODS: Eighty-six women with vulvodynia were randomized to (G1) 25 mg amitriptyline, once a day (n=27), (G2) amitriptyline + electrical stimulation therapy (n=29) or (G3) amitriptyline + kinesiotherapy (n=30). All treatment modalities were administered for 8 weeks. The primary endpoint was the reduction in vestibular pain. Secondary measurements focused on sexual pain, frequency of vaginal intercourse, Friedrich score, and overall sexual function. Data were analyzed using intention-to-treat. RESULTS: All treatment modalities resulted in a significant decrease in vestibular pain (p<0.001), sexual pain (p<0.05), Friedrich score (p<0.001), and an increase in the frequency of sexual intercourse (p<0.05). G3 was more effective than G1 at reducing sexual pain (G1: 5.3±3.3 vs G3: 3.2±2.7; p=0.01) and at improving sexual function (G1: 18.8±9.8 vs G3: 23.9±7.8; p=0.04). CONCLUSION: Kinesiotherapy and electrotherapy additions to amitriptyline administration as well as amitriptyline alone, were effective at improving vestibular pain in women with vulvodynia. Women receiving physical therapy had the greatest improvement in sexual function and frequency of intercourse at post-treatment and follow-up.

Current Practices in Brazil on Diagnosis and Management of Women With Vulvodynia.

OBJECTIVE: Vulvodynia (VVD) is a frequent and harrowing condition for which diagnosis and management remain insufficient. Our study aimed to describe and compare vulvovaginal signs and symptoms of Brazilian women with VVD and controls and describe previous medical assessment, past treatments, and vulvar pain relief among women with VVD. METHODS: This cross-sectional descriptive study included Brazilian women with (n = 151) and without VVD (n = 106). All women were assessed for vaginal infection, vulvar pain intensity by means of a cotton swab test based on a numerical rate scale, and answered the Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire and a structured instrument about current vulvar symptoms. Previous treatments were assessed in the VVD group, and vulvar pain relief achieved with previous treatments was qualified through a 4-point Likert scale. RESULTS: Volunteers were mainly White, with mean age of 30 years. Vulvovaginal signs and symptoms were significantly more frequent in women with VVD (p < .05), and vulvar pain duration was 5.8 (±4) years. More than 50% consulted with three or more physicians, and 49% remained without a conclusive diagnosis. Previous diagnosis and treatment of vulvovaginal infection were often reported by women with VVD. Most of the tried prescriptions were self-reported as providing only low vulvar pain relief. CONCLUSIONS: Prolonged duration of vulvar pain, multiple visits to health care professionals, and poor relief of pain are common aspects in the clinical history of women with VVD. In addition to pain, vulvar fissure, edema, erythema, vaginal discharge, and foul odor are common and should be considered to avoid misdiagnosis. Appropriate treatments to VVD are still poorly reported.

High-Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT) as an Emerging Treatment for Vulvodynia and Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain Disorders: A Systematic Review of Treatment Efficacy.

High-intensity laser therapy (HILT) has been gaining popularity in the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain, including vulvodynia. The objective of this study was to critically appraise and synthesize the available evidence on the efficacy of HILT for reducing pain and improving function in vulvodynia and other chronic primary musculoskeletal pain conditions. Electronic databases and the grey literature were searched. Effects on pain intensity, function, and adverse events were assessed. One study investigating HILT in the treatment of vulvodynia and 13 studies on the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain were selected. The study assessing vulvodynia showed favorable results for reducing pain. Regarding chronic musculoskeletal pain, 12 out of the 13 studies selected consistently showed that HILT was more effective than the placebo/active comparator for reducing pain and improving function. The available effect sizes for pain showed large to huge effects. Similar effects were observed for function except for two studies showing moderate effects. The GRADE score was moderate. Conclusions: There are insufficient data to support the use of HILT in vulvodynia, but the promising results encourage further research. HILT appears to be effective in musculoskeletal pain conditions. More high-quality studies are needed to identify effective laser protocols.

Clitoral blood flow using color Doppler ultrasonography in women with and without provoked vestibulodynia.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: To compare blood flow of the dorsal clitoral artery in women diagnosed with provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) and in healthy controls using color Doppler ultrasonography. We hypothesized that women with PVD would have a restricted blood flow compared to controls. METHODS: This cross-sectional study evaluated the function of the dorsal clitoral artery through the spectral wave analysis of color Doppler ultrasonography (US) in 20 women diagnosed with PVD according to Friedrich's criteria and 21 healthy controls. Participants were evaluated during their follicular phase and were asked to abstain from sexual activities 24 ho prior the examination. Assessment was performed by an assessor blinded to participant diagnosis, in the morning after a 10-min rest period in a supine lying position in a room with temperature set at 22 °C. Measurements of the peak systolic velocity (PSV), time-averaged maximum velocity (TAMX), end-diastolic velocity (EDV), pulsatility (PI) and resistance index (RI) were performed at rest considering the mean value of three consecutive waveforms. RESULTS: Women with PVD and healthy controls did not present any statistically different baseline characteristics. Participants with PVD presented higher values of Doppler-US PSV, TAMX, EDV and RI compared to controls (p ≤ 0.05), which are suggestive of a decrease in blood flow. However, non-significant difference was found regarding PI values between the two groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Our findings revealed decreased peripheral tissue perfusion in women with PVD compared to healthy controls using color Doppler US, based on the alteration of four of the five assessed data of US parameters.

Habits of Genital Hygiene and Sexual Activity among Women with Bacterial Vaginosis and/or Vulvovaginal Candidiasis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate genital hygiene among women with and without bacterial vaginosis (BV) and/or vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). METHODS: A cross-sectional study of reproductive-aged women who underwent gynecological and laboratory tests and fulfilled a genital hygiene questionnaire. RESULTS: This study evaluated 166 healthy controls and 141 women diagnosed with either BV (n = 72), VVC (n = 61), or both (n = 8). The use of intimate soap and moist wipes after urination was more frequent among healthy women (p = 0.042 and 0.032, respectively). Compared to controls, bactericidal soap was more used by women with BV (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: Some hygiene habits were associated to BV and/or VVC. Clinical trials should address this important issue in women's health.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a higiene genital de mulheres com e sem vaginose bacteriana (VB) e/ou candidíase vulvovaginal (CVV). MéTODOS: Estudo transversal com mulheres em idade reprodutiva submetidas a exames ginecológicos e laboratoriais e preenchimento de questionário de higiene genital. RESULTADOS: Este estudo avaliou 166 controles saudáveis e 141 mulheres com diagnóstico de VB (n = 72), VVC (n = 61) ou ambas (n = 8). O uso de sabonete íntimo e lenços umedecidos após a micção foram hábitos mais frequentes entre mulheres saudáveis (p = 0,042 e 0,032, respectivamente). Em comparação com os controles, o sabonete bactericida foi mais usado por mulheres com VB (p = 0,05). CONCLUSãO: Alguns hábitos de higiene foram associados à VB e/ou VVC. Os ensaios clínicos devem abordar esta questão importante na saúde da mulher.

Laboratorial Aspects of Cytolytic Vaginosis and Vulvovaginal Candidiasis as a Key for Accurate Diagnosis: A Pilot Study.

OBJECTIVE: To identify clinical, microscopic, and biochemical characteristics that differentiate cytolytic vaginosis (CV) from vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). METHODS: The present cross-sectional study analyzed the vaginal contents of 24 non-pregnant women aged 18 to 42 years who were attended at the Genital Infections Clinic at Centro de Atenção Integral à Saúde da Mulher da Universidade Estadual de Campinas (CAISM-UNICAMP). They were diagnosed either with (CV = 8, VVC = 8) or without vulvovaginitis or vaginal dysbiosis (controls). The socio-demographic, clinical, and gynecological data were obtained from a detailed patient interview. Samples of the vaginal contents were collected for analysis of vaginal pH, gram stain, and specific fungal culture. The Kruskal-Wallis and Fisher exact tests were used to compare the differences between the groups. Odds ratios were used to compare the categorical variables. The significance level was considered at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Both women with CV and VVC had a lumpy vaginal discharge (p = 0,002) and vaginal hyperemia (p = 0.001), compared with controls. The inflammatory process was more intense in the VVC group (p = 0.001). In the CV group, there was statistical significance for the lactobacillus amount (p = 0.006), vaginal epithelium lysis (p = 0.001), and vaginal pH (p = 0.0002). CONCLUSION: Cytolytic vaginosis and VVC diagnoses rarely differ on clinical characteristics but have different laboratorial findings. The present study highlights the importance of conducting an accurate investigation through laboratory tests rather than clinical criteria to avoid misdiagnosis.

OBJETIVO: Identificar características clínicas, microscópicas e bioquímicas que diferenciam a vaginose citolítica (VC) da candidíase vulvovaginal (CVV). MéTODOS: O presente estudo de corte transversal analisou o conteúdo vaginal de 24 mulheres não grávidas, com idades entre 18 e 42 anos, atendidas no ambulatório de Infecções Genitais do Centro de Atenção Integral à Saúde da Mulher da Universidade Estadual de Campinas (CAISM-UNICAMP). Elas foram diagnosticadas com (CV = 8, CVV = 8) ou sem vulvovaginite ou disbiose vaginal (controles = 8). Os dados sociodemográficos, clínicos e ginecológicos foram obtidos em uma entrevista detalhada do paciente. Amostras do conteúdo vaginal foram coletadas para análise do pH vaginal, coloração de Gram e cultura específica de fungos. Os testes exatos de Kruskal-Wallis e Fisher foram utilizados para comparar as diferenças entre os grupos. A razão de chances foi utilizada para comparar as variáveis categóricas. O nível de significância considerado foi de p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: As mulheres com VC e CVV apresentaram corrimento vaginal irregular (p = 0,002) e hiperemia vaginal (p = 0,001), em comparação aos controles. O processo inflamatório foi mais intenso no grupo CVV (p = 0,001). No grupo VC, houve significância estatística para a quantidade de lactobacilos (p = 0,006), lise do epitélio vaginal (p = 0,001) e pH vaginal (p = 0,0002). CONCLUSãO: Os diagnósticos de VC e CVV raramente diferem nas características clínicas, mas apresentam achados laboratoriais diferentes. O presente estudo destaca a importância de conduzir uma investigação precisa por meio de testes laboratoriais, em vez de critérios apenas clínicos, a fim de evitar erros de diagnóstico.

Laboratorial aspects of cytolytic vaginosis and vulvovaginal candidiasis as a key for accurate diagnosis: a pilot study / Aspectos laboratoriais da vaginose citolítica e candidíase vulvovaginal como uma chave para o diagnóstico preciso: Um estudo piloto

Abstract Objective To identify clinical, microscopic, and biochemical characteristics that differentiate cytolytic vaginosis (CV) from vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). Methods The present cross-sectional study analyzed the vaginal contents of 24 non-pregnant women aged 18 to 42 years who were attended at the Genital Infections Clinic at Centro de Atenção Integral à Saúde da Mulher da Universidade Estadual de Campinas (CAISM-UNICAMP). They were diagnosed either with (CV = 8, VVC = 8) or without vulvovaginitis or vaginal dysbiosis (controls). The socio-demographic, clinical, and gynecological data were obtained from a detailed patient interview. Samples of the vaginal contents were collected for analysis of vaginal pH, gram stain, and specific fungal culture. The Kruskal-Wallis and Fisher exact tests were used to compare the differences between the groups. Odds ratios were used to compare the categorical variables. The significance level was considered at p < 0.05. Results Both women with CV and VVC had a lumpy vaginal discharge (p = 0,002) and vaginal hyperemia (p = 0.001), compared with controls. The inflammatory process was more intense in the VVC group (p = 0.001). In the CV group, there was statistical significance for the lactobacillus amount (p = 0.006), vaginal epithelium lysis (p = 0.001), and vaginal pH (p = 0.0002). Conclusion Cytolytic vaginosis and VVC diagnoses rarely differ on clinical characteristics but have different laboratorial findings. The present study highlights the importance of conducting an accurate investigation through laboratory tests rather than clinical criteria to avoid misdiagnosis.

Resumo Objetivo Identificar características clínicas, microscópicas e bioquímicas que diferenciam a vaginose citolítica (VC) da candidíase vulvovaginal (CVV). Métodos O presente estudo de corte transversal analisou o conteúdo vaginal de 24 mulheres não grávidas, com idades entre 18 e 42 anos, atendidas no ambulatório de Infecções Genitais do Centro de Atenção Integral à Saúde da Mulher da Universidade Estadual de Campinas (CAISM-UNICAMP). Elas foram diagnosticadas com (CV = 8, CVV = 8) ou sem vulvovaginite ou disbiose vaginal (controles = 8). Os dados sociodemográficos, clínicos e ginecológicos foram obtidos em uma entrevista detalhada do paciente. Amostras do conteúdo vaginal foram coletadas para análise do pH vaginal, coloração de Gram e cultura específica de fungos. Os testes exatos de Kruskal-Wallis e Fisher foram utilizados para comparar as diferenças entre os grupos. A razão de chances foi utilizada para comparar as variáveis categóricas. O nível de significância considerado foi de p < 0,05. Resultados As mulheres com VC e CVV apresentaram corrimento vaginal irregular (p = 0,002) e hiperemia vaginal (p = 0,001), em comparação aos controles. O processo inflamatório foi mais intenso no grupo CVV (p = 0,001). No grupo VC, houve significância estatística para a quantidade de lactobacilos (p = 0,006), lise do epitélio vaginal (p = 0,001) e pH vaginal (p = 0,0002). Conclusão Os diagnósticos de VC e CVV raramente diferem nas características clínicas, mas apresentam achados laboratoriais diferentes. O presente estudo destaca a importância de conduzir uma investigação precisa por meio de testes laboratoriais, em vez de critérios apenas clínicos, a fim de evitar erros de diagnóstico.

Pelvic Floor Biometric Changes Assessed by 4D Translabial Ultrassound in Women With Vulvodynia Submitted to Physical Therapy: A Pilot Study of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Vulvodynia is a disabling condition in which pelvic floor muscles' (PFM) hypertonicity plays an important role. AIM: To evaluate biometric changes in PFM in women with vulvodynia undergoing kinesiotherapy treatment protocol (KTP). METHODS: A single-blinded randomized controlled trial of 57 women with vulvodynia randomly assigned to either KTP + amitriptyline or amitriptyline alone (controls) for treatment. Four-dimensional translabial ultrasound assessed PFM regarding symphysis-levator distance at rest, anorectal angle at rest, excursion of the levator plate angle, and levator hiatal narrowing. Volunteers underwent a vaginal examination for a cotton swab test (CST), fulfillment of Friedrich criteria score and PFM power of contraction, and completed a diary of sexual pain and frequency of vaginal intercourse. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks of treatment. OUTCOMES: Primary outcomes were differences in biometric parameters assessed by four-dimensional translabial ultrasound after treatment, between groups. Secondary outcomes were changes in clinical variables (CST, Friedrich criteria, PFM power of contraction, frequency of intercourse, and intensity of sexual pain) between groups and correlation analysis between biometric parameters and clinical variables. RESULTS: Only the KTP group had statistically significant changes in biometric parameters after treatment (symphysis-levator distance: 0.22 ± 0.2, 95% CI = 0.1-0.4, P = .008; levator hiatal narrowing: -0.33 ± 0.2, 95% CI = -1 to -0.2, P = .04). Comparisons between groups showed that symphysis-levator distance (0.3, 95% CI = 0.2-0.6, P = .005) and excursion of levator plate angle (4.9, 95% CI = -0.4 to 10.1, P = .02) improved significantly after KTP treatment. Clinical variables showed greater improvement in the group treated with KTP for CST (difference of -3.7, 95% CI = -7 to -0.4, P = .01), Friedrich criteria (difference of -1.9, 95% CI = -3.2 to -0.6, P = .003), PFM power of contraction (0.3, 95% CI = 0.1-0.6, P = .05) and intensity of sexual pain (reduction of 1.7, 95% CI = -3.1 to -0.2, P = .01). Some clinical and biometric variables correlated positively, for example, frequency of vaginal intercourse and anorectal angle (P = .04; r = 0.25), or inversely, for example, pain intensity at CST and anorectal angle (P = .004, r = -0.31). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: This study provides evidence on efficiency of a physical therapy protocol for improvement of symptoms of vulvodynia and hypertonicity changes. CONCLUSION: This pilot study suggests that KTP for women with vulvodynia promoted significant changes in PFM biometric measures, consistent with alterations in hypertonicity and clinical improvement. Bardin MG, Giraldo PC, Martinho N. Pelvic Floor Biometric Changes Assessed by 4D Translabial Ultrassound in Women With Vulvodynia Submitted to Physical Therapy: A Pilot Study of a Randomized Controlled Trial. J Sex Med 2020;17:2236-2246.

[Habits and traditions of female college students related to intimate clothing, genital adornments, genital hair removal and sexual practices]. / Hábitos e costumes de mulheres universitárias quanto ao uso de roupas íntimas, adornos genitais, depilação e práticas sexuais.

PURPOSE: To describe the practices and care with the genital area of female college students. METHODS: A descriptive analytical study evaluated the habits and traditions of 364 students from the University of Campinas (Unicamp) regarding the use of underwear, body piercings, tattoos, hair removal and sexual practices. A questionnaire with 42 questions assessed the most current practices among female college students. All questions were self answered and the questionnaires, without any identification, were placed in sealed ballot boxes to ensure the confidentiality of information. The responses were tabulated in Microsoft® Excel 2007 to obtain univariate analysis. RESULTS: The mean age of the college students in the study was 21 years (SD ± 2.7), and 84% were white. The volunteers who participated in this study were from the biological science area (50%), the exact science area (29%) or the humanity area (21%). It was observed that 61.8% of the respondents wear cotton panties, but at the same time 75.4% wear tight jeans, and only 18.4% wore no panties when sleeping. Only one participant reported having had genital piercing and none of them reported tattooing. Most female college students do genital waxing, and approximately 1/3 of them do so completely. After hair removal, 2/3 apply an anti-inflammatory and/or moisturizer to the region. Only 62% use condoms and 17.6% use a lubricant during intercourse. Half of them receive oral sex, 17.9% practice anal sex and 26.6% of them report feeling pain during sexual intercourse. Vaginal discharge after intercourse was reported in 25.6% of the cases. CONCLUSION: Young female college students from Brazilian public universities have many inadequate care habits related to their genital area. They do not use genital piercing and tattoos, but report having pain during sexual intercourse and vaginal discharge after sex in a large number of cases.

Association of sanitary pads and clothing with vulvovaginitis / Associação de absorventes higiênicos íntimos e vestimentas com vulvovaginites

A oclusão vulvar e o acúmulo de umidade em decorrência do uso de absorventes higiênicos, roupas íntimas sintéticas e/ou calças justas são considerados fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de vulvovaginites (VV), contudo, esta associação ainda está mal esclarecida. Objetivo: associar a prática do uso de absorventes higiênicos e vestimentas à presença de vaginose bacteriana (VB) e/ou candidíase vaginal (CV). Métodos: estudo de corte transversal analisou o uso de absorventes e vestimentas de 307 voluntárias de 18 a 45 anos, com e sem VB e/ou CV. Um questionário de seis domínios foi aplicado individualmente às voluntárias, nos ambulatórios de um hospital universitário (Unicamp, BR). Este estudo analisou três dos seis domínios. Coletou-se material vaginal para diagnóstico microbiológico de VB (critérios de Nugent)e CV (bacterioscopia corada por Gram e cultura em meio Saboureaud). Critérios de exclusão: uso de antibióticos nos últimos 15 dias, histórico de câncer, HIV+, sífilis, doença imunossupressora. A análise estatística utilizou teste exato de Fischer e qui-quadrado, pelo EPI INF 0.5. O nível de significância considerada foi p<0,05. Resultados: Do total, 141 (46%) das mulheres foram diagnosticadas com VV. A média de idade foi de 33(+/-6,8) anos e a maior parte das mulheres era caucasiana (52%), tinha um parceiro fixo (83%) e utilizava métodos hormonais contraceptivos (64,5%). As mulheres com VV utilizaram mais calcinhas de tecido sintético (10,6 x zero), apresentaram mais ciclos menstruais (72,3 x 55,4%) que aquelas sem VV (p<0,005 e p<0,0001) e apresentaram hábitos de uso de absorventes semelhantes. Conclusão: os hábitos de uso de absorventes higiênicos não estão associados à presença de VV, já a presença de ciclos menstruais e uso de calcinhas de tecido sintético se relacionou a maior freqüência de VV.

Vulvar oclusion and moisture buildup resulting from the use of sanitary pads, synthetic underwear and/or tight pants are considered risk factors for the development of vulvovaginitis (VV), however, this association is still poorly elucidated. Objective: to associate the use of sanitary pads and clothing with the presence od bacterial vaginitis (BV) and vaginal candidiasis (VC). Methods: cross-sectional study aimed at analyzing the use of sanitary pads and clothing in 307 volunteers from 18 to 45 years old, with and without BV and/or VC. A questionnaire comprehendind six domains was applied individually to the volunteers, in an outpatient gynecology clinic at a university hospital (University of Campinas, Brazil). This study analyzed three of six domains. Vaginal material was collected for microbiologic diagnosis of BV (Nugent criteria) and VC (GRam stain and culture of the fungus in Saboureaud). Exclusion criteria were: use of antibiotics within 15 days, history of cancer, positive HIV and/or syphilis and immunosupressive disease. Statistical analysis were made with Fischer and chi-square tests, using the software EPI INFO 0.5. Significance level was set at p<0.05. Results: in total, 141 (46%) women were diagnosed with VV. The mean age was 32 (+/-6.8) years and most women were Caucasian (52%), had a steady partner (83%) and were using hormonal contraceptives (64,5%). Women with presence of VV used more panties made of synthetic fabric (10.6% x zero), had more menstrual cycles (72.3 x 55.4%) than those without VV (p<0.005 and p<0.0001) and showed patterns of sanitary pads similar to those without VV. Conclusion: habits of usage of sanitary pads is not associated with the presence of VV. Presence of menstrual cycle and use of synthetic underwear have been related with greater frequency of VV.

Hábitos e costumes de mulheres universitárias quanto ao uso de roupas íntimas, adornos genitais, depilação e práticas sexuais / Habits and traditions of female college students related to intimate clothing, genital adornments, genital hair removal and sexual practices

OBJETIVO: Descrever as práticas e cuidados com a área genital de mulheres universitárias. MÉTODOS: Estudo analítico descritivo, que analisou os hábitos e costumes de 364 estudantes de uma universidade pública do Estado de São Paulo quanto ao uso de roupas íntimas, piercings corporais, tatuagens, depilação e práticas sexuais. Um questionário com 42 perguntas avaliou as práticas habituais mais comuns das universitárias. Todas as perguntas foram autorrespondidas e os questionários, sem qualquer identificação, foram colocados em urnas lacradas para garantir o sigilo das informações. As respostas foram tabuladas em planilha Microsoft® Excel 2007 para obtenção de análise univariável. RESULTADOS: A média de idade das universitárias estudadas foi de 21 anos (DP±2,7), sendo 84% brancas. Participaram do estudo voluntárias das áreas de biológicas (50%), exatas (29%) e humanas (21%). Observou-se que 61,8% das entrevistadas usam calcinhas de algodão, porém, ao mesmo tempo, 75,4% usam calças jeans apertadas, e que somente 18,4% deixam de usar calcinha para dormir. Apenas uma participante relatou ter piercing genital e nenhuma tinha tatuagem. A maioria das universitárias faz depilação genital, sendo que aproximadamente um terço delas o faz de forma completa. Após depilar, dois terços usam produtos como anti-inflamatórios e/ou hidratantes na região. Apenas 62% usam camisinha masculina e 17,6% lubrificante na relação sexual. Metade pratica sexo oral receptor; 17,9% sexo anal e 26,6% delas relatam ter dor no ato sexual. Corrimento vaginal foi relatado após a relação sexual em 25,6% dos casos. CONCLUSÃO:Mulheres jovens de universidade pública brasileira têm muitos hábitos inadequados de cuidados relacionados à sua área genital. Não costumam usar piercings ou tatuagens genitais, mas relatam ter dor no ato sexual e corrimento vaginal após o sexo em um grande número de casos.

PURPOSE: To describe the practices and care with the genital area of female college students. METHODS: A descriptive analytical study evaluated the habits and traditions of 364 students from the University of Campinas (Unicamp) regarding the use of underwear, body piercings, tattoos, hair removal and sexual practices. A questionnaire with 42 questions assessed the most current practices among female college students. All questions were self answered and the questionnaires, without any identification, were placed in sealed ballot boxes to ensure the confidentiality of information. The responses were tabulated in Microsoft® Excel 2007 to obtain univariate analysis. RESULTS:The mean age of the college students in the study was 21 years (SD±2.7), and 84% were white. The volunteers who participated in this study were from the biological science area (50%), the exact science area (29%) or the humanity area (21%). It was observed that 61.8% of the respondents wear cotton panties, but at the same time 75.4% wear tight jeans, and only 18.4% wore no panties when sleeping. Only one participant reported having had genital piercing and none of them reported tattooing. Most female college students do genital waxing, and approximately 1/3 of them do so completely. After hair removal, 2/3 apply an anti-inflammatory and/or moisturizer to the region. Only 62% use condoms and 17.6% use a lubricant during intercourse. Half of them receive oral sex, 17.9% practice anal sex and 26.6% of them report feeling pain during sexual intercourse. Vaginal discharge after intercourse was reported in 25.6% of the cases. CONCLUSION:Young female college students from Brazilian public universities have many inadequate care habits related to their genital area. They do not use genital piercing and tattoos, but report having pain during sexual intercourse and vaginal discharge after sex in a large number of cases.

Capacidade de exercício e seu valor prognóstico no pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca / Physical exercise capacity and its prognostic value in postoperative cardiac surgery

INTRODUÇÃO: O valor prognóstico da capacidade de exercício em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica (CRM) necessita de esclarecimentos. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a capacidade de exercício e o seu valor prognóstico em pacientes com doença arterial coronariana, submetidos à cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica eletiva. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 21 pacientes e 29 controles. Dois incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) e dois testes de caminhada de 6 min (TC6) foram realizados randomicamente em dias alternados. A força de preensão manual (FPM) foi também avaliada. RESULTADOS: A FPM em valores percentuais (78,4 ± 16 vs. 97,2 ± 15%), o TC6 em metros (412 ± 79 vs. 601 ± 7 m) e em valores percentuais (72 ± 13 vs. 110 ± 11%) e o ISWT em metros (257 ± 90 vs. 517 ± 138 m) e em valores percentuais (53 ± 16 vs. 108 ± 16%) foram significativamente (p < 0,05) inferiores nos pacientes. Onze pacientes apresentaram complicações pós-operatórias (grupo C) e dez evoluíram bem (grupo SC). O grupo C apresentou idade mais avançada (57 ± 6 vs. 71 ± 7 anos; p < 0,05), FPM inferior (33 ± 6 vs. 41 ± 9 kgf) e ISWT inferior (208 ± 81 vs. 311 ± 66 m). Não houve diferenças significativas para o TC6. A regressão logística selecionou o ISWT como determinante do prognóstico dos pacientes (p = 0,04). CONCLUSÃO: Os pacientes à espera de CRM eletiva apresentam significativa redução da capacidade de exercício e o ISWT apresentou valor prognóstico significativo discriminando os pacientes com complicações pós-operatórias.

INTRODUCTION: The prognostic value of exercise capacity in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) needs clarification. OBJECTIVES: To assess exercise capacity and its prognostic value in patients with coronary artery disease undergoing elective CABG. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated 21 patients and 29 controls. Two incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) and two tests of 6-min walk test (6MWT) were performed randomly on alternate days. The handgrip strength (FPM) was also evaluated. RESULTS: The FPM in percentages (78.4 ± 16 vs. 97.2 ± 15%), the 6MWT in meters (412 ± 79 vs. 601 ± 7 m) and percentage values (72 ± 13 vs. 110 ± 11%) and the ISWT in meters (257 ± 90 vs. 517 ± 138 m) and percentage values (53 ± 16 vs. 108 ± 16%) were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in patients. Eleven patients had postoperative complications (group C) and 10 had a good outcome (group SC). The group C showed significantly (p < 0.05), older age (57 ± 6 vs. 71 ± 7 years old), FPM lower (33 ± 6 vs. 9 ± 41 kgf) and ISWT lower (208 ± 81 vs. 311 ± 66 m). There were no significant differences for the 6MWT. Logistic regression analysis comparing the ISWT and 6MWT selected ISWT as a determinant of prognosis of patients (p = 0.04). CONCLUSION: Patients waiting for elective CABG have significantly reduced exercise capacity and ISWT had significant prognostic value discriminating patients with postoperative complications.

Association between the occurrence of falls and the performance on the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test in elderly women / Associação entre a ocorrência de quedas e o desempenho no Incremental Shuttle Walk Test em mulheres idosas

BACKGROUND: Because the incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) requires agility in its performance, we hypothesized that the test may be associated with balance and risk of falls in the elderly. Objective: To evaluate and compare the association between the performance on the ISWT, the timed up and go (TUG) and the occurrence of falls in the elderly. METHOD: Thirty-three elderly individuals (68±7 years) performed the TUG and the ISWT. Balance was assessed using the Berg Scale (BBS). Participants who fell at least twice in the last 12 months were placed in the "falls" group (FG) and all other participants comprised the control group (CG). RESULTS: There were seventeen elderly women in the FG and 16 in the CG. Participants from the FG had a significant worse performance (p<0.05) on the TUG (8.01±0.22 vs. 6.22±0.21 s), BBS (51±3 vs. 55±1 points) and ISWT [313±79 (92±15%pred.) vs. 395±75 m (113±19%pred.)] than participants from the CG. The ISWT significantly correlated with the TUG (r=-0.75, p<0.001), BBS (r=0.50, p=0.002) and number of falls (r=0.36, p=0.031). After logistic regression, the TUG was determinant (p=0.03) and the ISWT showed a tendency to determine the occurrence of falls (p=0.05). CONCLUSION: The ISWT was a valid measure to assess the risk of falls and balance and therefore, may be useful for the simultaneous assessment of cardiorespiratory fitness and balance in older women.

CONTEXTUALIZAÇÃO: Levantamos a hipótese de que o Incremental Shuttle Walk Test (ISWT), por exigir agilidade do examinado, possa estar associado ao equilíbrio e ao risco de quedas em idosos. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar e comparar as associações entre os desempenhos no ISWT e no Timed Up and Go (TUG) e a ocorrência de quedas em idosos. MÉTODO: Trinta e três idosas (68±7 anos) realizaram o ISWT e o TUG. O equilíbrio foi avaliado pela Escala de Equilíbrio de Berg (EEB). As participantes que caíram, pelo menos, duas vezes nos últimos 12 meses foram alocadas no grupo "quedas" (GQ), e as demais compuseram o grupo controle (GC). RESULTADOS: O GQ foi composto por 17 idosas, e 16 compuseram o GC. O GQ apresentou pior desempenho (p<0,05) no TUG (8,01±0,22 vs. 6,22±0,21 s), na EEB (51±3 vs. 55±1 pontos) e no ISWT [313±79 (92±15%prev.) vs. 395±75 m (113±19%prev.)]. A distância percorrida no ISWT correlacionou-se com o TUG (r=-0,75; p<0,001), com a EEB (r=0,50; p=0,002) e com o número de quedas (r=0,36; p=0,031). Após regressão logística, o TUG foi determinante (p=0,03), e a ISWT mostrou tendência para determinar a ocorrência de quedas (p=0,05). CONCLUSÃO: O ISWT foi válido para avaliar o risco de quedas e o equilíbrio e pode ser útil como ferramenta de avaliação simultânea da aptidão cardiorrespiratória e do equilíbrio em mulheres idosas.

Association between the occurrence of falls and the performance on the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test in elderly women.

BACKGROUND: Because the incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) requires agility in its performance, we hypothesized that the test may be associated with balance and risk of falls in the elderly. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and compare the association between the performance on the ISWT, the timed up and go (TUG) and the occurrence of falls in the elderly. METHOD: Thirty-three elderly individuals (68±7 years) performed the TUG and the ISWT. Balance was assessed using the Berg Scale (BBS). Participants who fell at least twice in the last 12 months were placed in the "falls" group (FG) and all other participants comprised the control group (CG). RESULTS: There were seventeen elderly women in the FG and 16 in the CG. Participants from the FG had a significant worse performance (p<0.05) on the TUG (8.01±0.22 vs. 6.22±0.21 s), BBS (51±3 vs. 55±1 points) and ISWT [313±79 (92±15%pred.) vs. 395±75 m (113±19%pred.)] than participants from the CG. The ISWT significantly correlated with the TUG (r=-0.75, p<0.001), BBS (r=0.50, p=0.002) and number of falls (r=0.36, p=0.031). After logistic regression, the TUG was determinant (p=0.03) and the ISWT showed a tendency to determine the occurrence of falls (p=0.05). CONCLUSION: The ISWT was a valid measure to assess the risk of falls and balance and therefore, may be useful for the simultaneous assessment of cardiorespiratory fitness and balance in older women.