
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the recurrence of BV symptoms after initial treatment that can have several implications for women's health and well-being and associated costs over time. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) affects 25-50% of women of ages (15 -44). Research indicates that recurrence rates average between 30% - 50% within six to 12 months after initial treatment.
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HEALTH IMPLICATIONS
Recurrent BV can lead to persistent symptoms such as abnormal vaginal discharge, odor, itching, and irritation, impacting women's comfort and quality of life. It also increases the risk of complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), postoperative infections, and susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
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REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH IMPACT
Recurrent BV is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight, posing risks to both maternal and fetal health.
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PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS
The chronic nature of recurrent BV can cause emotional distress, and reduced self-esteem among affected women, impacting their intimate relationships and overall psychological well-being.
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FINANCIAL COSTS
Managing recurrent BV involves repeated medical consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatments, resulting in cumulative healthcare expenses over time. Additionally, there may be indirect costs such as lost productivity due to symptoms or healthcare appointments.
BV Impact
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Vaginal yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis are the leading causes of pregnancy complications
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Current treatments are ineffective or only provide transient relief from symptoms
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$8B in combined direct cost in the US + $32B in indirect cost, annually
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21.2MM women have untreated bacterial vaginosis, many of Hispanic and African descent
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138MM women have recurrent yeast infections
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Downstream risks: prenatal complications, preterm birth, STIs, and antibiotic resistance

