Bacterial vaginosis is a very common genital infection among women. Therefore, we came to help you understand more about this subject.
Subjects like this are normally considered taboo. And this is precisely because many women feel ashamed to talk about this subject. Above all, we at Women’s Area have brought you all the information you need to understand about the genital infection called vaginosis.
Basically, bacterial vaginosis, as the name suggests, is caused by bacteria, mainly Gardnerella Vaginalis. In fact, vaginosis is a mixed proliferation of this first type of bacteria with the Peptoestreptococcus e Mycoplasma of man.
In fact, these bacteria can usually be found in any human being. That is, it can occur in both men and women. However, it is much more common to occur in women, and especially in those of reproductive age.
Therefore, it is important to highlight that this infection is responsible for triggering an imbalance in the vaginal flora. Consequently, the concentration of certain bacteria can increase. And also reduce the number of lactobacilli and the increase in pathogenic bacteria.
Symptoms
A priori, bacterial vaginosis does not have any type of inflammatory reaction. In fact, the symptoms of this genital infection are the presence of white, grayish discharge and a foul odor.
However, before you get scared, it is normal to have a more unpleasant and strong odor during your period. Because, during this period, the action of bacteria increases. Therefore, try to interpret your body’s signals.
It is worth noting that if you do not follow the treatments correctly, vaginosis can cause more serious problems. For example, endometritis and salpingitis (inflammation of the tubes). In men, there are no symptoms.
Diagnosis and treatments
Firstly, the diagnosis of vaginosis occurs during a gynecological examination. Therefore, the doctor can detect this infection during a routine examination. Because vaginosis changes the vaginal contents.
Therefore, after the exam, the doctor must request laboratory tests, such as a Pap smear. In addition to requesting immunological tests.
Basically, the preventive Pap smear collects cells from the vagina and cervix through a scraping. In fact, this scraping helps diagnose other diseases, such as vaginosis. In addition to being responsible for tracking the presence of precursor lesions of cervical cancer.
Above all, both diseases must be treated correctly to ensure a cure. In the case of vaginosis, treatment must begin with the use of antibiotics in doses prescribed by the gynecologist. These antibiotics can be taken orally or vaginally, and must be used for seven days.
In fact, during treatment it is not recommended to consume alcohol. Well, alcohol may be responsible for causing adverse reactions. So hold back your anxiety, and leave the glass of wine for another week.
Prevention
Above all, this disease is not defined as a sexually transmitted disease (STD). However, transmission can occur through intimate contact or sexual intercourse.
Therefore, it is recommended to use a condom in all relationships. Because condoms not only prevent vaginosis, but also all STDs.
In addition to this tip, it is important to highlight that intimate hygiene is also essential. Therefore, always keep your vagina clean.
In fact, when using the toilet, gynecologists recommend that you clean it from front to back. This way you don’t run the risk of taking bacteria from the anus to the genitals.
Furthermore, some experts also ask to avoid the use of vaginal douches and the use of bidets. Because these cleaning methods may contain bacteria, which can unbalance the vaginal tract.
How to live with vaginosis?
A priori, as it is an infection, it can certainly cause some discomfort, or even disrupt some everyday situations. Therefore, so that vaginosis does not return anytime soon, we recommend that you change your routine and start following prevention methods to avoid the return of this disease.
For example, one of the methods you can start, or continue following, is to maintain a healthier lifestyle. In other words, sleep at least eight hours a day, practice physical activity, maintain a healthy diet, drink lots of water and reduce sugar consumption.
In addition to a healthy routine, you must also perform intimate hygiene properly. And lastly, choose cotton panties. Well, these panties allow your skin to “breathe” better. Consequently, there will be no increase in temperature in the vagina, which is also a factor that causes an imbalance in the vaginal flora.
Bacterial vaginosis x candidiasis
You’ve probably noticed a certain similarity between vaginosis and candidiasis. Even if you feel a little indecisive and confused, stay calm. Well, we understand this confusion and that’s why we’re here to explain in more detail the difference between each one.
A priori, the main similarity between them is the fact that both originate from an imbalance in pH and vaginal flora. However, both are very different from each other. Including the treatment and how to deal with each one. For example, candidiasis must be treated with antifungals. And vaginosis must be treated with antibiotics.
Above all, candidiasis, as you may have noticed, is an infection caused by a fungus, this fungus is called Candida albicans. Its symptoms are usually vaginal itching and thick, white discharge. In fact, it is very rare for candidiasis to have a strong smell.
Anyway, what did you think of our article? Now do you understand the difference between vaginosis and candidiasis?
Come check out another article from Women’s Area: Sleeping without panties is good for women’s intimate health
Sources: Ginocanesten, Gineco
Featured image: Vix
