Photodynamic therapy with methylene blue and LED in the rebalancing of the vaginal microbiota: a clinical approach

Abstract

Alterations of the vaginal microbiota, including dysbiosis, recurrent candidiasis, trichomoniasis and vaginal atrophy, may significantly compromise gynecological health and women's quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of photobiomodulation combined with photodynamic therapy in patients with altered vaginal microbiota and persistent gynecological symptoms. This is a case series of 10 patients aged 22 to 53 years who underwent the CLEAN GYN protocol, based on intravaginal application of red LED combined with photodynamic therapy using methylene blue and blue LED. Clinical parameters, vaginal pH, characteristics of vaginal discharge and subjective response to treatment were assessed. Clinical improvement was observed in all cases evaluated, with reduction or disappearance of pathological discharge, improvement of inflammatory symptoms, rebalancing of the vaginal microbiota and reduction of vaginal pH in most patients. Among subjective outcomes, 50% of patients reported marked improvement, 30% temporary improvement and 20% slight improvement. The results suggest that the combination of photobiomodulation and photodynamic therapy may represent a promising therapeutic alternative for the management of vaginal dysbiosis, subclinical infections and trophic alterations of the vaginal mucosa.