Bacterial vaginosis

Description

A bacterial infection of the vagina is called vaginosis. Medical professionals also use the terms Gardnerella infection, Haemophilus vaginalis infection, and amine colpitis for it. It is one of the most common vaginal diseases in the sexually mature age.

Bacteria, to a lesser extent, are also common in the genital area. However, if the vaginal environment changes, bacteria can multiply more easily and cause discomfort. Gardnerella (rod-shaped bacteria) are responsible for about 40% of all vaginal infections.

In connection with pregnancy, amine colpitis can probably lead to premature rupture of the membranes or premature birth. Other infections are favoured by vaginosis. Therefore, it should be treated in any case, even if the symptoms are not excessive.

Whether a symptom-free infection is present can be tested (also by pregnant women) via the pH value of the vagina. Special gloves are available in pharmacies for this purpose.

Gardnerella rarely cause symptoms in men. Nevertheless, they are transmitted through sexual intercourse.

Treatment is recommended and makes sense, especially in case of frequent occurrence.

Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an incorrect colonisation of the vagina. The "good" bacteria of the vagina (e.g. lactic acid bacteria) which are responsible for the healthy, so-called vaginal flora, are displaced by various germs.

Gardnerella in particular (rod-shaped bacteria) can then spread unhindered. In some cases, vaginosis is also caused by other sexually transmitted bacteria:

• Chlamydia
• Mycoplasma
• Bacteroides
• Clostridia

Typically, a bacterial infection of the vagina begins with increased discharge. This is grayish to yellowish in color and has a characteristic fishy odor. In addition, there is itching, irritation of the external genitals and slight stabbing pain or problems with urination.

The pH of the vagina is also alkaline altered (increased).

Bacterial vaginosis is associated with premature rupture of membranes and premature birth in pregnant women. It is also associated with fever and wound infections after delivery.

In men, a Gardnerella infection is usually asymptomatic.

In order to be able to detect a bacterial infection, the attending physician must first take a swab from the vagina. In the mucous membrane sample, infected vaginal cells become visible under the microscope.

The exact pathogen can be identified on the basis of bacterial cultures. The fishy smell can be intensified by pouring on potassium hydroxide solution.

It is not uncommon for amine colpitis to occur together with a trichomonad infection.

At home, an infection can be ruled out by means of a pH test. This is especially recommended for pregnant women to prevent premature birth.

Unless there is pregnancy, vaginosis only needs to be treated when symptoms appear. Antibiotics can quickly cure the infection. Special vaginal suppositories, creams and tablets can be prescribed by the doctor.

To avoid re-infection, it is advisable to treat the partner at the same time. During therapy, the use of condoms is essential and lactic acid bacteria should be introduced in the form of suppositories as a preventive measure.

If pregnancy is present, treatment is recommended regardless of symptoms. This is carried out in the same way as that of non-pregnant patients.

Apart from the unpleasant symptoms, bacterial vaginosis is relatively harmless and the prognosis is therefore good.

However, caution is advised with regard to ascending infections. Other germs (e.g. chlamydia) can inflame the fallopian tubes or uterus. This can lead to adhesions, which in turn can lead to infertility.

Furthermore, the risk of HIV infection is acutely increased.

In case of pregnancy, premature birth, premature onset of labour or inflammation of the episiotomy (after birth) are possible. Therefore, a vaginal infection should always be treated in case of pregnancy.