The effect of polycarbophil gel (Replens™) on bacterial vaginosis: A pilot study

ObjectiveTo determine if use of intravaginal polycarbophil gel (Replens™) for 1 month will: (1) lower vaginal pH; (2) improve signs of bacterial vaginosis (BV).Study designSeventeen women with BV self-administered polycarbophil gel every third day for 4 weeks in an open-label, prospective pilot study. Primary outcome measures included vaginal pH, presence of amines and Nugent scores.ResultsAt week 4, there was improvement in Nugent scores, vaginal odor and clue cell count (p < 0.05). Eleven women converted from amine positive to negative (73 ± 20%). There was no significant change in vaginal pH.ConclusionsPolycarbophil gel is associated with improved signs of BV, although not vaginal pH.