Determinants of Bacterial Vaginosis: A Retrospective Study

Background: Among women who can have children, bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge. Due to its high prevalence and morbidity, it is crucial to prevent BV by addressing its risk factors. Objective: This study aimed to determine the incidence and determinants of BV in the sexually transmitted infection (STI) division of the Dermatovenereology Department at Dr. Soetomo Hospital in Surabaya. Methods: This retrospective analytical observational study was conducted using a cross-sectional approach. Electronic data from 56 patients were included in the study, covering the period from 2019 to 2022. The patients were divided into two groups: BV patients and controls. BV patients were diagnosed with BV by fulfilling three out of four Amsel criteria, while controls with typical vaginal discharge. Results: The study included 34 BV patients and 22 control patients. Bivariate analysis showed a significant correlation between the incidence of BV and the number of sexual partners (p = 0.009) and the use of intrauterine devices (IUD) (p = 0.002). Multivariate analysis confirmed that both factors were determinants of BV incidence, with IUD use being the most dominant determinant (95% CI 1.86~135.02, p = 0.01). Conclusion: The study found that the use of IUDs and the number of sexual partners significantly determined BV incidence.