Sexual behaviors and other risk factors for Candida vulvovaginitis

Sexual behaviors are associated with many genital infections, but the role of sexual variables as risk factors for Candida vulvovaginitis has not been clearly determined. To assess the association between sexual behaviors and other risk factors with the presence of Candida vulvovaginitis, we perform ed a case-control study comparing these potential risk factors in women wit h and without culture-documented Candida vulvovaginitis in two Midwestern c ommunity-based medical offices. Participants included 156 women with Candid a vulvovaginitis and 92 controls, ages 18-60. Risk factors for Candida vulv ovaginitis, including sexual and partnership behaviors, demographic data, p ast genital infections, exposures, and diet, were investigated using logist ic regression. The presence of Candida vulvovaginitis was positively associ ated with recent cunnilingus (odds ratio [OR] = 2.22 for five times a month compared with no times, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.36, 3.84), but was less likely in women who masturbated with saliva in the previous month (OR = 0.30 if masturbated five times vs. no times, 95% CI 0.09, 0.99). Other in dependent risk factors included knowing the sexual partner a shorter period of time (OR = 1.56 for 1 year vs. 5 years, 95% CI 1.16, 2.13) and lower mi lk ingestion (OR = 3.57 for no servings vs. two servings per day, 95% CI 2. 00, 6.67). Increased number of sexual partners, early age at first intercou rse, and increased frequency of intercourse are not related to risk.