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Bacterial Vaginal Infection
. What is Bacterial Infection in Vagina? Bacterial vaginosis has gone by a lot of different names in the past. Why have so many names been used for this vaginal infection? Because bacterial vaginosis is polymicrobial: it is caused by many different species of bacteria. In the case of bacterial vaginosis, certain bacteria overgrow while other bacteria and yeast are suppressed. Organisms such as Gardenerella vaginalis multiply in great numbers and cause the characteristic symptoms associated with this infection. During this infection, the total concentration of bacteria in the vagina increases 100-fold!
Again, as in yeast infections, the mere presence of the offending organisms doesn't mean the female has an infection. Some of the offending bacteria do present normally in vaginal secretions. Symptoms are produced only when the organisms multiple to numbers far greater than normal. This infection can occur in females of all ages, during pregnancy, and even after hysterectomy.
What Symptoms Does Bacterial Vaginosis Cause? The most common symptom of females with bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal discharge with a fishy odor. This is found most often during and after a period [menstruation] or after intercourse. Mild burning or itching in the genital area may be present as well.
How Is Bacterial Vaginosis Diagnosed? The diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis begins by noting a female's symptoms. She will usually complain of an increase in vaginal discharge with odor and some burning or irritation in the genital area. Other symptoms, such as fevers, pelvic pain, or the presence of sores in the genital area might suggest other diagnoses. We also inquire whether she has had similar complaints in the past, and what their cause was.
Conformation of the diagnosis is made during the pelvic exam, when a small amount of the discharge is obtained for evaluation. The bacteria can be seen under the microscope, attached to vaginal cells that were shed ("clue cells"). The pH (acidity) of the vaginal fluid is often altered because of the suppression of normal acid-producing bacteria. Finally, a "whiff" test is performed: a few drops of potassium hydroxide are added to the discharge sample, and a strong fishy odor is noted.
It is possible for bacterial vaginosis to occur along with yeast or other infections. During the pelvic exam, therefore, the gynecologist will attempt to exclude the presence of any other causes of infection or inflammation. Additional lab tests are done as indicated. Any suspicious lesions are examined and biopsied if necessary.
How Is Bacterial Vaginosis Treated? Treatment of routine bacterial vaginosis is usually simple. The best antibiotics to suppress the overgrown populations of bacteria will be suggested by the gynecologist. A vaginal gel is also available; it should be used twice a day for five days. Patients taking medicine cannot drink any alcohol. This antibiotic medicine taken by alcoholics to remain sober; any ingestion of alcohol causes severe nausea and vomiting. As with other types of vaginitis, gynecologists recommend "pelvic rest" translation: no intercourse until the infection has resolved.
Is This an Important Infection in Pregnant Females? Treatment of bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy is crucial. Current research suggests an increased risk of premature birth as well as infection inside the uterus during or after delivery. Because of the potential risks from infection, females are treated in pregnancy whether or not they have symptoms.
How Are Recurrent Episodes of Bacterial Vaginosis Treated? Recurrent infections of bacterial vaginosis are common. The following steps may help reduce the frequency of repeat episodes:
· repeating the antibiotic treatment, either with the same drug or with another antibiotic that the bacteria are more sensitive to;
· using careful personal hygiene: wiping from "front to back" after using the toilet keeps bacteria from being dragged from the rectum into the vagina;
· treatment of sexual partners: some physicians will treat husband of females with recurrent infections even if they have no symptoms;
· use of diluted hydrogen peroxide douche to decrease odor; only on the advise and supervision of gynecologist.
· Avoiding sexual intercourse if a wife or husband has an infection.