Background Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) and Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) are common, associated with significant morbidity, often impact on psychological well-being and can be relatively costly to manage. BASHH guidelines acknowledge that the evidence base for recommendations is poor. We aimed to describe the management regimes of GUM Consultants who routinely manage these conditions within our large network prior to introducing sector-wide guidelines.

Method We emailed appropriate GUM consultants from the six network centres requesting their standard management regimes for both conditions. We collated the responses and used BASHH Guidelines as a standard for comparison

Results All 14 consultants responded. Treatment regimes for VVC were broadly similar but only three consultants prescribed according to BASHH Guidelines. 13 consultants prescribed induction regimes. All consultants used oral fluconazole, doses included 50, 100 and 150 mg. Duration of induction regimes ranged from 3 daily doses, alternate day doses, 72 h doses to daily dose for 14 days. Ten consultants prescribed maintenance therapy for 6 months, 4 stopped after 3 months. 11 consultants prescribed 150 mg weekly for at least 3 months. For recurrent BV there was considerable variation and no one followed BASHH guidelines. Regimes included oral metronidazole (2 g, 400 mg), metronidazole gel or clindamycin pessaries. Induction ranged from 5 to 14 days, maintenance from 3 to 6 months. All consultants prescribed menstrual regimes if appropriate. Three consultants also prescribed Balance Activ or equivalent.

Conclusion Management of recurrent BV and VVC varied greatly across the network. Management of recurrent VVC was more closely associated with BASHH guidelines than management of recurrent BV. Management regimes are often based on clinicians' own experience. New network guidance has now been established providing a local standard for future case record audit.