VAGINITIS, BACTERIAL ( Gardnerellavaginitis; Nonspecific Vaginitis)

VAGINITIS, BACTERIAL ( GardnerellaVaginitis; Nonspecific Vaginitis)

BASIC INFORMATION • If you have diabetes, adhere strictly to your DESCRIPTION treatment program. Vaginitis means infection or inflammation of the • Change tampons or pads frequently. vagina. Nonspecific vaginitis (bacterial vaginosis) EXPECTED OUTCOMES implies that any of several infecting germs, Usually curable in 2 weeks with treatment. POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS including Gardnerella, Escherichia coli, • Discomfort and decreased pleasure with sexual activity. Mycoplasma, streptococci, or staphylococci, • May indicate an underlying disorder, such as diabetes. have caused the infection. These infections are • Nonspecific vaginitis has been associated with preterm contagious. Vaginitis can affect all ages, but most birth. The disorder should be carefully evaluated and often occurs during reproductive years. treated when it occurs in pregnancy. FREQUENT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS TREATMENT Severity of the following symptoms varies between GENERAL MEASURES women and from time to time in the same woman. • Diagnostic tests may include laboratory studies of • Vaginal discharge that has an unpleasant odor. vaginal discharge, Pap smear and pelvic examination. • Genital swelling, burning and itching. • Drug therapy will be directed to the specific organism. • Vaginal discomfort. Your sexual partner may need treatment also. It is best • Change in vaginal color from pale pink to red. not to do self-treatment for the disorder until the specific • Discomfort during sexual intercourse. cause is determined. CAUSES • Don’t douche unless prescribed for you. The germs normally present in the vagina can • If urinating causes burning, urinate through a tubular multiply and cause infection when the pH and device, such as a toilet-paper roll or plastic cup with the hormone balance of the vagina and surrounding bottom cut out or pour a cup of warm water over genital tissue are disturbed. E. coli bacteria normally area while you urinate. MEDICATIONS inhabit the rectum and can cause infection if spread • Antibiotics or antifungals to treat the infection. to the vagina. The following conditions increase the Metronidazole (Flagyl) is often used for treatment of likelihood of infections: bacterial vaginosis. • General poor health. • Soothing vaginal creams or lotions for nonspecific forms • Hot weather, non-ventilating clothing, especially of vaginitis may be recommended. underwear, or any other condition that increases ACTIVITY genital moisture, warmth and darkness. These Avoid overexertion, heat and excessive sweating. Delay foster the growth of germs. sexual relations until after treatment. • Poor hygiene (sometimes). DIET RISK INCREASES WITH No special diet. • Diabetes mellitus. NOTIFY OUR OFFICE IF • Menopause. • You or a family member has symptoms of bacterial • Illness that has lowered resistance. vaginitis. • HIV infection. • Symptoms persist longer than 1 week or worsen, PREVENTIVE MEASURES despite treatment. • Keep the genital area clean. Use plain unscented • Unusual vaginal bleeding or swelling develops. soap. Be sure sexual partner is clean. Adapted from Instructions for Patients, Sixth Edition, H. Winter • Take showers rather than tub baths. Griffith, M.D., W.B Saunders Company. • Wear cotton underpants or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. • Don’t sit around in wet clothing, especially a wet bathing suit. • After urination or bowel movements, cleanse by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus). • Lose weight if you are obese. • Avoid vaginal douches, deodorants and bubble baths.