What is it about ?
Vaginosis is an infection of the vagina caused by bacteria, but without inflammation of the lining.
The term vulovaginitis refers to the inflammation of the mucous membranes of the vagina and lips, accompanied by symptoms. The main causes of vulvovaginitis are fungal infections (by fungi) (25-44%) and bacteria (18-37%). STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) like trichomonas and chlamydia are less frequent.
- A bacterial infection of the vagina (vaginosis) is due to an imbalance between normal bacteria in the vagina and others, increasing the acidity level and causing the proliferation of other bacteria.
- A fungal infection, as with Candida albicans, appears mainly after temporarily weakened resistance, after taking antibiotics and around menstruation. The typical elongated cells of a fungus (hyphae) can be seen on microscopic examination.
- The STD like trichomonas or chlamydia are spread through sexual contact. Trichomonas is a parasite, chlamydia a bacteria.
But sometimes, the microbiological examination or laboratory analysis cannot accurately explain the abnormal vaginal discharge.
What is their frequency?
Vaginal complaints are one of the most common problems in daily primary care practice. They occur in about 19 women per 1,000 per year.
How to recognize them?
The main symptom is increased vaginal discharge, which is also called leucorrhea.
- In case bacterial infection of the vagina (vaginosis), this discharge is generally gray to greenish. This vaginal discharge may be the only symptom.
- In case of’fungal infections, the discharge is whitish and looks a bit like curdled milk. It is often associated with strong itching, a painful burning sensation and painful intercourse.
- In the presence of STD, the discharge is usually yellowish and profuse, it has a fishy odor and causes itching and pain.
How is the diagnosis made?
The doctor will ask you specific questions, both about the nature, appearance and evolution of vaginal discharge and about the risk factors for contracting sexually transmitted diseases.
The doctor will examine the vaginal lips, the vagina and the cervix. By examining the vagina and cervix, he may decide to take a sample there for additional laboratory tests. Using a cotton swab, he takes a sample of the discharge from the vaginal wall and / or cervix. The exam is quite painless.
What can you do ?
- Do not use special products for your personal hygiene; water is enough to clean you. Avoid douching and locally irritating products.
- Favor safe sex, use condoms properly, to prevent STDs in unreliable sexual contact.
- If you have been diagnosed with an STD, you should always tell (all) your sexual partners. They also need to be treated. To prevent re-infection, sexual contact should be avoided until your sexual partner (s) have received treatment.
What can your doctor do?
Treatment depends on the condition.
- Bacterial infection of the vagina (vaginosis)
Bacterial vaginosis can only be treated if there are complaints. This is also the case in pregnant women. It is possible to choose a local treatment with a cream or with vaginal tablets or a treatment with swallow pills. - Fungal infection
Antifungal therapy is only started if there are symptoms. It can be given through the vagina or by taking pills. The two treatments are equal, so the doctor will ask you which treatment (vaginal or oral) you prefer. Pregnant women should also be treated only if they have symptoms. - Trichomonas infection (STD)
This STD should always be treated, even if there are no noticeable symptoms. The doctor will prescribe medication for you. It is also necessary to treat the sexual partner (s).
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