Effects of tampons and menses on the composition and diversity of vaginal microbial communities over time

Abstract

Changes in the composition of the vaginal microbiota during menses were common, but the magnitude of change varied between women. Despite these changes, most communities were capable of resuming a composition similar to previous mid-cycle sampling times following menstruation. Overall we conclude that the two tampons tested do not significantly impact the vaginal microbiota in different ways; however, larger studies should be performed to confirm these findings.