Improving Vaginal Health with a Zinc-Containing Vaginal Hydrogel.

Abstract

Vulvovaginal symptoms affect up to 39% of women. These symptoms have a significant impact on quality of life and are often linked to imbalances in the vaginal microbiota. This study evaluates the therapeutic efficacy of a zinc-containing hydroxyethyl cellulose-based hydrogel in 37 women with different vulvovaginal symptoms (itching, burning, irritation, pain, dryness, discharge, and odor). Over 12 weeks, participants applied the gel intravaginally with both assessments conducted at baseline and follow-ups. Results revealed substantial improvements in symptoms, including reductions in vaginal discharge, itching, and burning, as measured by the Vulvovaginal Symptom Questionnaire (VSQ-21), with scores decreasing from 10.78 ± 3.66 at baseline to 3.17 ± 4.16 at week 12 (p < 0.01). Vaginal Health Index (VHI) scores improved significantly, from 20.78 ± 1.74 at baseline to 23.64 ± 2.59 (p < 0.01). Cervicovaginal lavage (CVL) zinc levels decreased from 110 ± 102 µg/L at baseline to 62 ± 48 µg/L at week 4 (p < 0.01), increased to 80 ± 55 µg/L at week 8 (p = 0.04), and reached 99 ± 92 µg/L by week 12 (NS). A correlation analysis showed an inverse relationship between baseline CVL zinc levels and VSQ-21 scores (r = -0.3586, p = 0.034), while no significant correlation was observed with VHI scores (r = -0.0187, p = 0.9545). Vaginal pH levels decreased significantly, dropping from 4.03 ± 0.42 to 3.71 ± 0.48 (p < 0.01). These findings support the gel's role as an effective, nonhormonal, drug-free, and local adjunct treatment for a variety of vulvovaginal symptoms.