Resumo 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.

Abstract 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.

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.

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.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of microablative fractional radiofrequency (MAFRF) in the non-hormonal treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause. METHODS: We examined the cases of 55 postmenopausal women before and after treatment with regard to their vaginal health index (VHI), vaginal microbiota, vaginal pH, and cell maturation. Three applications of MAFRF were performed in the vagina/vaginal introitus. During the treatment, six vaginal smears were obtained and stained with the Papanicolaou stain for determining the degree of cell maturation and with Gram stain for classification of vaginal flora, as per the criteria of Spiegel and Amsel. For vaginal pH determination, pH indicator strips were applied against the vaginal wall. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS for Windows (version 17.0). Data were reported as mean±standard deviation. The differences were analyzed using the statistical method of generalized estimation equations with autoregressive correlation structure “1” and robust standard errors. RESULTS: The mean age was 59.8±4.2 years, and the mean time of menopause was 15.4±4.5 years. After treatment, there was an increase in the percentage of Lactobacillus spp. (p<0.001). Consequently, there was a progressive decrease in vaginal pH during the treatment (p<0.001). Regarding cell maturation, there was a decrease in the percentage of parabasal cells (p=0.001) and an increase in the rate of superficial cells (p<0.001). Additionally, there was an improvement in the VHI index. The mean VHI values before and after treatment were 13.2±5.6 and 22.5±3.7, respectively (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: MAFRF treatment is well tolerated and leads to improvement in the vaginal microenvironment.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Avaliar as alterações do ambiente endocervical e vaginal em mulheres usuárias de sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG). MÉTODOS: Um estudo quase-experimental incluiu 60 mulheres que inseriram o SIU-LNG na Clínica de Planejamento Familiar da UNICAMP entre abril e novembro de 2016. Mulheres em idade reprodutiva, não gestantes, sem uso de antibióticos e contraceptivos, em busca pela inserção do SIU-LNG, foram selecionadas para este estudo. Todas as mulheres foram avaliadas quanto ao pH vaginal e endocervical, bacterioscopia vaginal e endocervical por coloração de Gram, exame de Papanicolau antes e dois meses após a inserção de SIU-LNG. Aspectos clínicos como muco cervical, corrimento vaginal e ectopia cervical também foram observados. RESULTADOS: Após a inserção do SIU-LNG houve aumento nos seguintes parâmetros: pH endocervical >4,5 (p=0,02), quantidade de neutrófilos endocervicais (p<0,0001), citolise vaginal (p=0,04). Houve diminuição do conteúdo vaginal (p=0,01). Não foram encontradas alterações estatisticamente significativas no pH vaginal, na quantidade de neutrófilos na mucosa vaginal, apecto do corrimento vaginal, candidíase vaginal, vaginose bacteriana, microbiota cocobacilar vaginal, aparência de muco cervical ou tamanho da ectopia cervical. CONCLUSÃO: O uso do SIU-LNG em curto prazo não aumentou a candidíase vulvovaginal ou a vaginose bacteriana, levou à diminuição do conteúdo vaginal. No entanto, este dispositivo promoveu mudanças reacionais no ambiente vaginal e endocervical, sem modificação no tamanho da ectopia cervical.

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate endocervical and vaginal environment changes in women using a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS). METHODS: A quasi-experimental study included sixty women who had an LNG-IUS inserted in the Family Planning Clinic of UNICAMP between April and November of 2016. Women in reproductive age, non-pregnant, without the use of antibiotics and contraceptives seeking for LNG-IUS insertion were selected for this study. All women were evaluated with regard to vaginal and endocervical pH, vaginal and endocervical Gram-stained bacterioscopy, and Pap-smear before and two months after LNG-IUS insertion. Clinical aspects such as cervical mucus, vaginal discharge, and cervical ectopy were also observed. RESULTS: After LNG-IUS insertion, there was an increase in the following parameters: endocervical pH>4.5 (p=0.02), endocervical neutrophil amount (p<0.0001), vaginal cytolysis (p=0.04). There was a decrease in vaginal discharge (p=0.01). No statistically significant changes were found in vaginal pH, neutrophils amount in the vaginal mucosa, vaginal discharge appearance, vaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, vaginal coccobacillary microbiota, cervical mucus appearance, or cervical ectopy size. CONCLUSIONS: Short-term LNG-IUS use did not increase vulvovaginal candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis, and led to diminished vaginal discharge. Notwithstanding, this device promoted reactional changes in the vaginal and endocervical environment, without modification on cervical ectopy size.

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO: A higiene genital pode desempenhar um papel importante na prevenção de desconfortos vulvovaginais e infecções. Evidências científicas sobre as melhores práticas em higiene genital são escassas, e o ginecologista, sem dúvida, é a melhor pessoa para discutir e orientar o assunto. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a higiene genital feminina usual de médicas ginecologistas. MÉTODOS: Estudo analítico descritivo que identificou higiene genital e práticas sexuais de 220 ginecologistas por meio de um questionário com 60 perguntas autorrespondidas. Os dados foram analisados e apresentados por frequência, porcentagem, média e desvio padrão. Resultados: A população estudada consistiu de médicas ginecologistas femininas brancas (71,3%) com idade média de 37,3 anos. Mais da metade (53,6%) relatou ficar fora de suas casas por períodos superiores a 10 horas por dia e queixaram-se de descarga vaginal em 48,1% dos casos. Higiene vulvovaginal regular: 17,8% relataram lavar os genitais uma vez por dia e 52%, duas vezes por dia. O uso apenas de papel (seco) foi relatado em 66,4% dos casos após micção e em 78,5% após a evacuação. A higiene ideal com água corrente e sabão foi praticada apenas em 25,9% e 21,5%, respectivamente. Higiene vulvovaginal relacionada ao sexo: mais da metade delas relatou relações sexuais 1-3 vezes por semana, sexo oral frequente e anal eventual em 37,4% e 24,1%, respectivamente. A higiene genital pré-sexo foi relatada por 52,7% das pessoas e em 78,5% após o coito. Conclusão: Os hábitos de higiene genital dos ginecologistas femininos estão sujeitos a melhorias, mesmo considerando o alto grau de conhecimento científico que possuem.

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION: Genital hygiene can play an essential role in avoiding vulvovaginal discomfort and preventing infections. The scientific evidence on best practices on genital hygiene is scarce, and without doubt, gynecologists should be the best person to discuss and guide the subject. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the general genital female gynecologist hygiene. METHODS: This descriptive analytic study identified genital hygiene and sexual practices of 220 female gynecologists, through a questionnaire with 60 self-answered questions. The data were analyzed and presented using frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation. RESULTS: The studied population was constituted by middle age (37.3 years) and white (71.3%) female gynecologists. More than a half (53.6%) declared spending over 10 hours a day away from home and complained of vaginal discharge in 48.1% of the cases. Regular vulvovaginal hygiene: 17.8% reported washing genitals once a day and 52% twice a day. The use of dry paper alone was reported in 66.4% post urination and 78.5% post-evacuation. Using running water and soap was practiced by 25.9% and 21.5% respectively. Vulvovaginal hygiene related to sex: More than half of them had intercourse 1-3 times a week, and 37.4% and 24.1% had frequent oral sex and eventually anal sexof the participants, respectively. Genital hygiene before sex was positive in 52.7% of the subjects and, post-sex hygiene in 78.5% of them. Conclusion: Genital hygiene habits of female gynecologists can be improved, despite the high grade of scientific knowledge they hold.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar a influência da capacidade funcional (CF) sobre a qualidade de vida (QV) de mulheres sobreviventes de câncer de mama. Método: 400 mulheres sobreviventes de câncer de mama foram avaliadas -118 sem metástases, 160 com metástases locorregionais e 122 com metástases a distância. Para avaliar a capacidade funcional e a qualidade de vida, os seguintes instrumentos foram utilizados: European Organization for Research and Treatment for Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), Breast Cancer-Specific (EORTC QLQ-BR23) e Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS). Resultados: Mulheres com metástases a distância apresentaram menor KPS 75,3 (DP=12,5) (p<0,001). Quanto ao QLQ-C30, a média da escala funcional para pacientes com metástases a distância foi de 57 (DP=19) (p<0,001). A média da escala de sintomas das pacientes com metástase a distância foi de 37 (DP=20) (p<0,001). A escala de dor e fadiga apresentou a maior média nos grupos. Em relação à Escala Global de Saúde, as pacientes sem metástase tinham uma média de 62 (DP=24); com metástase locorregional, 63 (DP=21,4); e com metástase a distância, 51,3 (DP=24). Para o grupo com metástase a distância, 105 (87%) tiveram dor, e a média do KPS foi de 74 (DP=2,0) (p=0,001). Conclusão: O câncer de mama foi associado com diminuição da capacidade funcional, comprometendo a qualidade de vida das mulheres sobreviventes do câncer de mama com metástases locorregional ou a distância, quando comparadas àquelas sem metástases.

Summary Objective: To evaluate the influence of functional capacity (FC) and how it affects quality of life (QoL) in breast cancer survivors. Method: A total of 400 breast cancer survivors were studied - 118 without metastasis, 160 with locoregional metastasis and 122 with distant metastasis. The European Organization for Research and Treatment for Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire--Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), Breast Cancer-Specific (EORTC QLQ-BR23), and the Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) were used to evaluate FC and QoL. Results: Women with distant metastases presented lower KPS 75.3 (SD=12.5) (p<0.001). For QLQ-C30, the mean of the Functional Scale for patients with distant metastasis was 57 (SD=19) (p<0.001), and the mean of the Symptom Scale for patients with distant metastasis was 37 (SD=20) (p<0.001). Both the scales for pain and fatigue showed the highest mean in the groups. For the Global Health Scale, patients without metastasis scored a mean of 62 (SD=24) points, while those with locoregional metastases scored a mean of 63 (SD=21.4), and distant metastasis scored 51.3 (SD=24) points. In the group with distant metastases, 105 (87%) had pain, and the average KPS was 74 (SD=12.0) (p=0.001). Conclusion: Breast cancer was associated with decreased FC, compromised QoL in women with locoregional and distant metastases compared to those without metastasis.

Resumo Desde a descoberta do vírus Zika (VZIK) em 1947 em Uganda, na África, até sua chegada na América do Sul, não se tinha notícia de que ele seria capaz de comprometer a vida reprodutiva emhumanos de forma tão severa.Hoje, sabe-se que os danos sobre o sistema nervoso central são múltiplos, e a microcefalia é considerada a ponta do iceberg, visto que na realidade ela representa o epílogo de um processo devastador desta infecção sobre o sistema nervoso central do embrião e do feto. Em decorrência da agressão do sistema nervoso central pelo VZIK, esta infecção pode provocar artrogripose, disfagia, surdez e comprometimento visual. Todas estas alterações, de gravidade variável, direta ou indiretamente comprometem a vida futura dessas crianças, já sendo considerada uma síndrome congênita ligada aoVZIK. Uma das principais dificuldades na abordagemdessa infecção é relativa ao diagnóstico. Considerando a parte clínica, observa-se que ela apresenta manifestações comuns às infecções pelos vírus da dengue e da febre chikungunya, variando apenasemsuas intensidades subjetivas. As variáveis clínicas mais frequentes são o exantema, febrícula, conjuntivite não purulenta e artralgia. No tocante aos recursos laboratoriais, também existem limitações ao diagnóstico subsidiário. As provas de biologia molecular se fundamentam na reação em cadeia da polimerase (RCP) com ação da transcriptase reversa (TT), visto que o VZIK é umvírus ácido ribonucleico (ARN). ATRRCP apresenta positividade sérica ou plasmática por um período curto de tempo, não ultrapassando cinco dias após início dos sinais e sintomas. Esta pesquisa do VZIK na urina fica positiva por período mais prolongado, chegando a 14 dias. Ainda não existem técnicas seguras para diagnóstico sorológico dessa infecção. Não havendo complicações (meningoencefalite ou síndrome de Guillain-Barré), dificilmente são necessários mais exames complementares para avaliar o comprometimento sistêmico.No entanto, são necessáriasprovaspara descartar as outras infecções que causam exantema, como dengue, chikungunya, sífilis, toxoplasmose, citomegalovírus, rubéola e herpes. Sabe-se que não existe terapia antiviral específica contra o VZIK, e a abordagem terapêutica de gestantes portadoras da infecção limita-se ao uso de antitérmicos e analgésicos. Orienta-se evitar anti-inflamatórios até que o diagnóstico de dengue seja descartado. Sobre a condução do pré-natal, não há necessidade de modificar o cronograma de consultas pré-natais para gestantes que foram infectadas pelo VZIK, mas é necessária a garantia de três exames ecográficos durante a gravidez para gestantes de baixo risco, emensais para a gestante cominfecção confirmada pelo VZIK. Avia de parto é vaginal, e está liberado o aleitamento natural.

Abstract From the discovery of the Zika virus (ZIKV) in 1947 in Uganda (Africa), until its arrival in South America, it was not known that it would affect human reproductive life so severely. Today, damagetothe central nervous system is known to be multiple, and microcephaly is considered the tip of the iceberg. Microcephaly actually represents the epilogue of this infection’s devastating process on the central nervous system of embryos and fetuses. As a result of central nervous system aggression by the ZIKV, this infection brings the possibility of arthrogryposis, dysphagia, deafness and visual impairment. All of these changes of varying severity directly or indirectly compromise the future life of these children, and are already considered a congenital syndrome linked to the ZIKV. Diagnosis is one of the main difficulties in the approach of this infection. Considering the clinical part, it has manifestations common to infections by the dengue virus and the chikungunya fever, varying only in subjective intensities. The most frequent clinical variables are rash, febrile state, non-purulent conjunctivitis and arthralgia, among others. In terms of laboratory resources, there are also limitations to the subsidiary diagnosis. Molecular biology tests are based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR)with reverse transcriptase (RT) action, since the ZIKV is a ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus. The RT-PCR shows serum or plasma positivity for a short period of time, no more than five days after the onset of the signs and symptoms. The ZIKVurine test is positive for a longer period, up to 14 days. There are still no reliable techniques for the serological diagnosis of this infection. If there are no complications (meningoencephalitis or Guillain-Barré syndrome), further examination is unnecessary to assess systemic impairment. However, evidence is needed to rule out other infections that also cause rashes, such as dengue, chikungunya, syphilis, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, rubella, and herpes. There is no specific antiviral therapy against ZIKV, and the therapeutic approach to infected pregnant women is limited to the use of antipyretics and analgesics. Anti-inflammatory drugs should be avoided until the diagnosis of dengue is discarded. There is no need to modify the schedule of prenatal visits for pregnant women infected by ZIKV, but it is necessary to guarantee three ultrasound examinations during pregnancy for low-risk pregnancies, and monthly for pregnant women with confirmed ZIKV infection. Vaginal delivery and natural breastfeeding are advised.

Resumo Introdução O pessário vaginal é utilizado como tratamento conservador para o prolapso de órgãos pélvicos (POP). Alguns estudos demonstraram que as queixas mais comuns do seu uso são o desconforto vaginal e um aumento do fluxo vaginal. As informações são escassas a respeito do que ocorre com a microflora vaginal após o uso do pessário. Objetivo Determinar se o uso do pessário pode interferir com o ambiente vaginal. Métodos Um estudo transversal realizado de março de 2014 a julho de 2015 com 90 mulheres com POP; metade delas usaram pessário e a outra metade permaneceu como grupo controle. Todas preencheram um questionário e realizaram exame ginecológico para coleta de amostras vaginais para análise microbiológica. Dados clínicos e microbiológicos foram comparados entre os grupos de estudo e de controle. Resultados O fluxo vaginal foi confirmado em 84% das mulheres do grupo de estudo versus 62,2% do grupo de controle (p< 0,01); prurido foi encontrado em 20 e 2,2%, respectivamente (p< 0,05). As úlceras genitais foram somente encontradas no grupo pessário (20%). Não houve diferenças com relação ao tipo de flora vaginal. A vaginose bacteriana fora encontrada em 31,1% das mulheres do grupo de estudo versus 22,2% do grupo de controle (p= 0,34). Conclusão Mulheres usando pessários vaginais para tratamento do POP apresentaram maior fluxo vaginal, prurido e úlcera genital do que as não usuárias do dispositivo.

Abstract Introduction Vaginal pessary is used as a conservative treatment for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Some studies have shown that common complaints of its use may include vaginal discomfort and increased vaginal discharge. Scant information is available about the microflora status after using this device. Objective To determine if the usage of vaginal pessary can interfere with the vaginal environment. Methods A cross-sectional study was performed from March of 2014 to July of 2015 including 90 women with POP. The study group was composed of 45 women users of vaginal pessary and 45 nom-users. All enrolled women answered a standardized questionnaire and were subjected to a gynecological exam to collect vaginal samples for microbiological evaluation under optic microscopy. Clinical and microbiological data were compared between study and control groups. Results Vaginal discharge was confirmed in 84% of the study group versus 62.2% in the control group (p< 0.01); itching was reported in 20 and 2.2%, respectively (p< .05); genital ulcers were only found in the pessary group (20%). There was no difference with regard to the type of vaginal flora. Bacterial vaginosis was prevalent in the study group (31.1% study group versus 22.2% control group), (p=.34). Conclusion Women using vaginal pessaries for POP treatment presented more vaginal discharge, itching and genital ulcers than non-users.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to assess the risk of abnormal anal cytology in women with known genital squamous intraepithelial lesion. This study evaluated 200 women with and without genital squamous intraepithelial lesion who were recruited for anal Pap smears. Women who had abnormal results on equally or over atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance were classified as having abnormal anal cytology. A multiple logistic regression analysis (stepwise) was performed to identify the risk for developing abnormal anal cytology. Data were analyzed using the SPSS 20.0 program. The average age was 41.09 (±12.64). Of the total participants, 75.5% did not practice anal sex, 91% did not have HPV-infected partners, 92% did not have any anal pathology, and 68.5% did not have anal bleeding. More than half (57.5%) had genital SIL and a significant number developed abnormal anal cytology: 13% in the total sample and 17.4% in women with genital SIL. A significant association was observed between genital squamous intraepithelial lesion and anal squamous intraepithelial lesion (PR = 2.46; p = 0.03). In the logistic regression model, women having genital intraepithelial lesion were more likely to have abnormal anal Pap smear (aPR = 2.81; p = 0.02). This report shows that women with genital squamous intraepithelial lesion must be more closely screened for anal cancer.

Recently, many studies have evaluated HPV vaccine safety and adverse effects. Two vaccine shave been recently evaluated in randomized controlled trials: the bivalent vaccine for HPV 16 and 18 (Cervarix, GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals, Rixensart, Belgium) and the quadrivalent vaccine for HPV 6, 11, 16, and 18 (Gardasil, Merck and Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ). We have performed a systematic review of all randomized controlled trials in which HPV vaccines were compared with placebo regarding safety, tolerability and adverse effects. Studies were searched up to March 2013 in the databases: Pubmed, Embase, Scielo and Cancerlit. Odds Ratios (OR) of most incident adverse effects were obtained. Twelve reports, involving 29,540 subjects, were included. In the HPV 16/18 group, the most frequently reported events related to the vaccine were pain (OR 3.29; 95% CI: 3.00–3.60), swelling (OR 3.14; 95% CI: 2.79–3.53) and redness (OR 2.41; 95% CI: 2.17–2.68). For the HPV 6/11/16/18 group the events were pain (OR 2.88; 95% CI: 2.42–3.43) and swelling (OR 2.65; 95% CI: 2.0–3.44). Concerning the HPV 16/18 vaccine, pain was the most common outcome detected. These effects can be due to a possible VLP-related inflammation process. Fatigue was the most relevant general effect observed followed by fever, gastrointestinal symptoms, and headache. In the HPV 6/11/16/18 group, only general symptoms, pain and swelling were observed. Pain and swelling were the most frequent. Comparing HPV 16/18 to HPV 6/11/16/18 vaccines, the former presented more adverse effects, perhaps because there are many more trials evaluating the bivalent vaccine. Other studies are needed to clarify this issue.

OBJETIVO: Quantificar o número de células de defesa e os níveis de imunoglobulina E (IgE) no sangue periférico em amostra de mulheres com candidíase vaginal recorrente. MÉTODOS: Estudo de corte transversal com 60 mulheres, 40 com candidíase vulvovaginal e 20 do grupo controle (sem doença). As células de defesa foram identificadas utilizando um sistema de impedância combinada com a citometria de fluxo, os níveis de IgE total e específica foram medidos por meio de técnicas de quimiluminescência, o teste de Mann-Whitney foi utilizado para variáveis nominais e do teste de Spearman para correlações das concentrações de IgE e de eosinófilos no sangue periférico. RESULTADOS: O número de eosinófilos no sangue periférico de pacientes com candidíase vulvovaginal, 302,60 (±253,07), foi significativamente maior do que o grupo controle, 175,75 (±109,24) (p=0,037). Os níveis séricos de IgE total e específica foram semelhantes em ambos os grupos de mulheres com e sem candidíase vulvovaginal recorrente (p=0,361). Entretanto, observou-se uma correlação positiva moderada entre eosinofilia e níveis de IgE total no sangue periférico de mulheres com candidíase vaginal recorrente (r=0,25). CONCLUSÃO: Mulheres com candidíase vaginal recorrente parecem ter maior concentração de eosinófilos no sangue periférico que as assintomáticas.

PURPOSE: To quantify the number of defense cells and immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels in peripheral blood sampled from women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 60 women, 40 with vulvovaginal candidiasis and 20 controls. The defense cells were identified using an impedance system combined with flow cytometry and total and specific IgE was measured by chemiluminescence. The Mann-Whitney test was used for nominal variables and the Spearman test was used to determine the correlation of IgE concentration and eosinophils in peripheral blood. RESULTS: The number of eosinophils in peripheral blood from patients with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis, 302.60 (±253.07), was significantly higher compared to control, 175.75 (±109.24) (p=0.037). Serum levels of total and specific IgE were similar in the groups of women with and without recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (p=0.361). However, there was a moderate positive correlation between eosinophils and total serum IgE in the candidiasis group (r=0.25). CONCLUSION: Women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis are more likely to have eosinophils in peripheral blood.

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.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o impacto da prática de atividade física na qualidade de vida de mulheres de meia idade. MÉTODOS: Estudo de base populacional e corte transversal, que incluiu uma amostra estratificada de 370 mulheres de meia idade entre 40 a 65 anos, recrutadas a partir de uma população de 20.801 mulheres atendidas no período de um ano nas redes básicas de saúde, inseridas nos quatro distritos (Norte, Sul, Leste e Oeste) que compõem o sistema de saúde da cidade de Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, de junho a setembro de 2011. O cálculo da amostra teve por base um nível de confiança de 95%, com poder do teste de 80%, erro de estimativa de 5% e considerou-se a proporção de pacientes classificadas com qualidade de vida adequada (indicador >26) da amostra piloto. Os dados foram coletados enquanto as mulheres aguardavam na sala de espera para a consulta de rotina. Para avaliar a qualidade de vida geral, utilizou-se a versão abreviada do WHOQOL (WHOQOL-Bref-WHO Quality of Life - BREF), e sua relação com os sintomas do climatério foi avaliada por meio do Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). O nível de atividade física foi avaliado pelo questionário International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), versão curta, semana usual. Para obter-se a classificação dos níveis de atividade física, utilizaram-se três categorias: sedentária, moderadamente ativa e muito ativa. A análise estatística foi realizada utilizando o programa estatístico Minitab, versão 16. RESULTADOS: A média de idade das mulheres foi de 49,8 anos (±8.1), foram predominantemente caucasianas (72,7%), casadas (61,6%), não fumantes (93,5%) e com o Ensino Médio completo (47,8%). Considerando os domínios presentes no WHOQOL-Bref para avaliar qualidade de vida, os escores foram significativamente diferentes entre os grupos de mulheres sedentárias, moderadamente ativas e muito ativas (p<0,01). Em relação à atividade física e aos sintomas do climatério, foram observadas diferenças significativas para todos os domínios: psicológico (p<0,01), somático-vegetativo (p<0,01) e urogenital (p<0,01). CONCLUSÕES: A prática de atividade física melhora significativamente a qualidade de vida das mulheres de meia idade.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of physical activity on the quality of life of middle-aged women. METHODS: A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 370 women aged 40 to 65 years-old recruited from a population-based sample. Enrollment took place in Basic Health Units in each health district of the city (North, South, East, and West) from June to September 2011. According to the Municipal Health Department of the City, 20,801 women were assisted at the Basic Health Units during a one-year period. The sample size calculation was stratified by district and based on a 95% confidence level with a power of 80%, as well as an error estimate of 5% and it was considered proportional to the number of patients classified as having adequate quality of life (indicator >26) in the general population. Data were collected while women waited for their routine appointment at the Health Unit. WHOQOL-Bref was used to evaluate the quality of life, and menopause rating scale (MRS) was used to determine climacteric symptoms. The level of physical activity was assessed by means of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). To obtain the classification of PA levels, we used three categories: sedentary, moderately active, and very active. Statistical analysis was performed using the Minitab software, version 16. RESULTS: The mean age of the subjects was 49.8 years-old (±8.1) and they were predominantly Caucasian (72.7%), married (61.6%), non-smokers (93.5%), and had High School education (47.8%). Using the WHOQOL, mean scores were found to be significantly different between the groups (low, moderate, and vigorous physical activity), classified according to the domains of quality of life (p<0.01). Concerning physical activity and climacteric symptoms, significant differences were found for all domains: psychological (p<0.01), vegetative-somatic (p<0.01), and urogenital (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Physical activity improves quality of life in middle-aged women.

Due to the high prevalence and morbidity sexually transmitted diseases are highly relevant to public health, especially for women. OBJECTIVES: To determine and compare the behavioral and biological risks associated with human immunodeficiency virus acquisition. METHODS: A group of 253 women who voluntarily sought anonymous testing were interviewed to find out their behavioral risk. Biological risk was identified by means of gynecological exam, colposcopy as well as blood and cervicovaginal sampling for serological and microbiological exams. Using known traditional risk factors, a table of scores classified the subjects into high, low and absent for behavioral and biological risks. Frequency and percentage of each risk was tabulated and the correlation between risks was obtained by calculating the Kappa statistic. RESULTS: 79.8% of subjects were found to have behavioral risks, and 79.1% biological risks. It was also found that 66.7% of the women (169) with high behavioral risk also had high biological vulnerability. However, 31 out of 51 women without any behavioral risk had biological vulnerability 12.2 %. The Kappa statistic demonstrated low agreement between the latter risks [K = 0.05 95% CI (-0.06 to 0.17)]. CONCLUSION: Women who seek care in centers for anonymous testing have high biological risk, which is neither proportional nor concurrent to behavioral risk. The low concordance found between these risks suggests the need for routine gynecological investigation (clinical and microbiological) for all women.