Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection caused by excess bacteria, especially Gardnerella vaginalis and Gardnerella mobiluncus, in the vaginal canal, causing symptoms such as severe itching, burning or discomfort when urinating, a foul smell and a pasty white discharge, which can also be discolored yellowish or gray.
This infection is not considered an STD, as it is caused by a change in the woman's normal vaginal flora, where there is a decrease in the concentration of lactobacilli and a predominance of one species of bacteria over others.
Although it can cause a lot of discomfort, vaginosis can be easily treated with antibiotics and, therefore, it is very important to go to the gynecologist to identify the problem and start the appropriate treatment. In addition, as vaginosis has symptoms very similar to candidiasis it is also important to assess whether the infection is actually being caused by bacteria or fungi, as the treatment is different.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis is usually made through a preventive exam, also called a pap smear, in a routine exam, or when this is requested by the gynecologist, when the woman reports symptoms of the disease, for example. However, some women may have vaginosis but have no symptoms, the infection being discovered in a consultation with the gynecologist, especially in the case of candidiasis.
The criteria for the diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis are the inclusion of any of the following conditions: homogeneous white vaginal discharge in large quantities; vaginal discharge with pH> 4.5; fishy smell when mixing vaginal secretion with 10% KOH solution or microscopic demonstration of the microorganisms causing the infection.
Learn how to identify bacterial vaginosis.
How the treatment is done
Treatment for bacterial vaginosis is usually done with the use of antibiotics, such as metronidazole, which can be applied directly to the site, in the form of ointments or eggs, or tablets for oral ingestion.
The antibiotic must be used for 7 days or according to the gynecologist's indication and must not be interrupted with the improvement of symptoms. During treatment it is also recommended to use condoms in all relationships and avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. See how vaginosis is treated.
How to avoid
To prevent the appearance of bacterial vaginosis, it is recommended not to have vaginal douching, use a condom in all relationships, restrict the number of partners and perform gynecological exams at least once a year.
Risks of bacterial vaginosis
In most cases, bacterial vaginosis does not cause major complications, however, in people with a weakened immune system, it can:
- Infect the uterus and fallopian tubes, generating a pelvic inflammatory disease, also known as DIP; Increase the probability of AIDS infection, in cases of exposure to the virus; Increase the chances of the woman being infected by other sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea.
In addition, in the case of pregnant women, this type of infection may also increase the risk of premature birth or the newborn being born with a below average weight.
