| Abstract: | Contraception is certainly less responsible for the recrudescence of venereal diseases than are other social factors, such as the increased sexual freedom among adolescents. The condom and all topical spermicidal agents provide a valuable barrier against the risk of venereal infections. Genital infection, especially moniliasis, is more frequent among oral contraception (OC) users than among nonusers. The exact etiology of this phenomenon is not known; it is probable that OC exercises an influence on vaginal pH, which varies between 3-4.5 in OC users, and between 5.5-6.5 among nonusers. Risk of infection in IUD users is increased by prior genital and pelvic infections, which remain an absolute contraindication to IUD use. Copper IUDs have the lowest rate of infection, and the Dalkon Shield has the highest; rate of infection is 2 times higher in wearers for over 5 years. Since pelvic infection can have a negative influence on tubal permeability, IUD use is not recommended for nulliparous women. |
