Abstract | OBJECTIVE: STUDY DESIGN: This study used nonhuman primates to test the effects of multiple applications of nonoxynol 9, benzalkonium chloride, or a combination on vaginal flora and lower reproductive tract tissues. Fourteen monkeys (Macaca nemestrina) received daily vaginal applications of nonoxynol 9, benzalkonium chloride, or both for 3 to 4 days. Vaginal microflora and colposcopic observations were made at baseline and during and after completion of treatments. Cervical biopsy specimens were collected from a subset of animals. RESULTS: CONCLUSIONS: Although nonoxynol 9 is currently the only microbicide approved for use as a spermicide in the United States, its repeated use may be detrimental to the epithelial tissues of the female reproductive tract. Benzalkonium chloride, currently approved for use in other countries, not only may damage epithelial tissues but also appears to reduce the population of potentially protective Lactobacillus species in the vagina.
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Authors | D L Patton, G G Kidder, Y C Sweeney, L K Rabe, S L Hillier |
Journal | American journal of obstetrics and gynecology
(Am J Obstet Gynecol)
Vol. 180
Issue 5
Pg. 1080-7
(May 1999)
ISSN: 0002-9378 [Print] United States |
PMID | 10329859
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)
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Chemical References |
- Benzalkonium Compounds
- Spermatocidal Agents
- Nonoxynol
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Topics |
- Animals
- Benzalkonium Compounds
(administration & dosage, adverse effects)
- Biopsy
- Cervix Uteri
(pathology)
- Colposcopy
- Epithelium
(pathology)
- Erythema
(chemically induced)
- Female
- Lactobacillus
(isolation & purification)
- Macaca nemestrina
- Nonoxynol
(administration & dosage, adverse effects)
- Spermatocidal Agents
(adverse effects)
- Streptococcus
(isolation & purification)
- Uterine Cervicitis
(chemically induced, pathology)
- Vagina
(microbiology, pathology)
- Vaginitis
(chemically induced, pathology)
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