Intermittent treatment with an acid lactate gel (Lactal, ACO, Sweden) reduced symptoms of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and promoted the reestablishment of the normal vaginal flora of lactobacilli. Forty-two women seriously affected by recurrent BV were initially given acid gel (lactate gel, pH 3.8, 5 ml) to be inserted into the vagina daily for 7 consecutive days. Thereafter they entered into a double blind clinical trial and were treated prophylactically 3 days monthly for 6 months with either lactate gel or a placebo gel. Women treated with the lactate gel were clinically improved, i.e. no signs of BV in 88% compared to 10% in the placebo group (p < 0.001). The vaginal lactobacilli flora was reestablished in 83% of the lactate group and in 16% of the placebo group. Local intermittent application of lactate gel was found to be free of side effects and is a preferable alternative to repeated treatments with antibiotics in patients with recurrent BV.

Early discharge after hospital delivery is common in other countries. In Sweden it was not introduced until recent years. Previous investigations have mainly focused on medical risk factors. However, few investigations have been done regarding psychological factors. This study, comprising 44 families (7 primaparae and 37 multiparae) in an early discharge group (discharge 0-2 days after hospital birth) and a late discharge group (discharge 5-6 days), indicates that parents in the early discharge group had more negative experiences of their earlier postpartum stay. The mothers in the early discharge group experienced less sibling revalry compared to the mothers in the control group. There were no other differences between the groups. The parents were equally satisfied with their choices in both groups. Early discharge, as a voluntary alternative, presents an increased service for parents, since the parents may choose the most suitable postpartum care.