Propolis solution for the treatment of chronic vaginitis.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the efficacy of 5% propolis solution in recurrent vaginitis.


METHODS
Fifty-four patients with recurrent vaginal infections having undergone at least one cycle of antibiotic treatment were instructed to apply a 5% aqueous propolis solution as a vaginal douche for seven days. Vaginal smears and specific symptoms were evaluated at baseline and 14 days after treatment. Long-term well-being was assessed by telephone interview six months after follow-up.


RESULTS
At the follow-up, the vaginal smears of 41 patients (75.9%) had improved. Forty-seven patients (87%) reported reliefs concerning at least one complaint. Associated improvement of smear and well-being was observed in 36 women (66.7%). After 6 months, 33 patients (61.1%) were satisfied with their condition without having undergone further treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Propolis may have a role as an alternative treatment for chronic vaginal infection.
Imhof
M
M
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AKH Vienna, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria. martin.imhof@akh.ac.at
Lipovac
M
M
Kurz
Ch
Ch
Barta
J
J
Verhoeven
H C
HC
Huber
J C
JC
D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002181:Candidiasis, Vulvovaginal / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006194:Gardnerella vaginalis; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011429:Propolis / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012008:Recurrence; D007507:Therapeutic Irrigation; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014626:Vaginal Smears; D016585:Vaginosis, Bacterial / Q000188:drug therapy*
D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D011429:Propolis