Women’s and men’s health through the prism of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics 2023 recommendations. A new insight into the microbiome and intimate hygiene

The World Congress of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) which took place in Paris from October 9 to 12, 2023, brought together representatives from more than 130 countries. The Congress presented new methods for the detection and treatment of cervical cancer, recommendations on strategies for its screening and prevention, the relationship of hormonal contraception with cancer, new data on the human microbiome and reproductive function, male and female contraception, extreme conditions in obstetric and gynaecological practice, as well as aesthetic gynaecology. The issue of the microbiome of the genital tract was of considerable importance in many sections. The unique data from the Isala project and the International Research on Microbiota were presented: they demonstrated the importance of informing both doctors and women about the health state and microbiota of the vagina and vulva. As part of the project, a map of the female microbiome was made, and the importance of lactobacilli in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases was revealed. The influence of lifestyle and environment on the composition of the vaginal microbiota was also determined. The research aims to raise awareness about the microbiome and overcome taboos in women’s health. The obtained results became the basis for further research and development of methods for the prevention of disorders of the vaginal microbiota. There was a discussion of important aspects of female intimate hygiene including the prevention of vulvovaginal infections. The line of Saforel products for intimate hygiene was presented at the congress exhibition; these products were shown to be effective and safe for maintaining healthy intimate hygiene due to the properties of burdock, which is a component of the products.

Conclusion: Most women with diseases and symptoms of discomfort in the vulva (for example, contact dermatitis, vulvovaginitis) need advice on vulvar skin care and how to avoid contact irritants. The role of an obstetrician-gynecologist and dermatologist-venereologist is important in providing information on the principles of proper intimate hygiene and the basics of preserving and maintaining the microbiota of the vulva and vagina in balance. The clinical experience of using the new line of Saforel products has demonstrated optimal properties and safety for female intimate hygiene, as well as for vulvar dermatoses.