Symptoms of postmenopausal bacterial vaginitis

Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 22, 2024
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If a patient in menopause has bacterial vaginosis, the typical symptoms are itching in the vagina, local discomfort, and there may be a foul odor and increased discharge, with the secretions becoming more abundant. It is recommended that patients with these symptoms promptly visit a hospital to check their vaginal discharge to determine if they have bacterial vaginosis and identify the pathogen causing it. This way, targeted treatment measures can be adopted, and appropriate medication can be administered. Therefore, it is advised that such patients should seek medical consultation and examination at a hospital. (The use of medication should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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What is vaginal inflammation during pregnancy?

Due to the increase in body weight and the rapid rise in hormone levels during pregnancy, pregnant women are prone to vaginitis, and the risk of infection may also significantly increase. The three more common types of vaginitis include trichomoniasis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, and bacterial vaginosis. The presence of these three types of vaginitis can manifest as an increase in vaginal discharge accompanied by vulvar itching. Specific tests for vaginitis are needed based on the characteristics of the vaginal discharge and the results of the vaginitis tests, to determine the specific type of vaginitis and treat accordingly based on the type.

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How is yeast vaginitis caused?

Yeast vaginitis, also known as candidal vaginitis, generally forms due to improper care. Normally, the vaginal environment is acidic. If a person is particularly hygienic and uses cleansing solutions or water to wash the vagina daily, it can disrupt the vaginal microbiota, leading to recurrent episodes of yeast vaginitis. Additionally, long-term use of large doses of anti-inflammatory drugs can also cause an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota, resulting in recurrent yeast infections. Furthermore, patients with poorly controlled diabetes may also experience recurrent yeast infections. Pregnant women, 30%-40% of whom, may also develop yeast vaginitis due to microbial imbalance. Moreover, in households where someone has athlete's foot, washing socks and shorts together can also lead to yeast infections. Therefore, in addition to treatment, the precautions mentioned earlier should also be taken seriously.

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What should I do if I get vaginitis during pregnancy?

Vaginitis during pregnancy should be actively treated, generally choosing vaginal medications. Vaginal medications typically do not enter the bloodstream and are not absorbed by the fetus, thus not affecting the growth and development of the fetus. Vaginitis during pregnancy can lead to chorioamnionitis, and intrauterine infection of the fetus may lead to premature rupture of membranes, subsequently causing preterm birth or miscarriage. During pregnancy, the vaginal environment undergoes changes. There is an increase in the number of vaginal epithelial cells and secretions, which appear as white, paste-like substances. The glycogen level in the vaginal epithelial cells rises, the lactic acid content increases, and the pH decreases, making it prone to fungal vaginitis. However, this environment is unfavorable for the growth of other pathogenic bacteria and is beneficial in preventing bacterial infections.

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What should I do about yeast vaginitis?

Candidal vaginitis is an inflammation caused by a Candida infection in the vagina, leading to abnormal vaginal discharge and vulvar itching among other discomforting symptoms in women. Therefore, active treatment is generally necessary for candidal vaginitis. Fungi do not grow well in alkaline environments, thus washing the vulva with alkaline medicinal solutions can reduce symptoms of vulvar itching and aid in healing the disease. Additionally, local vaginal medications such as antifungal drugs like nystatin or clotrimazole vaginal tablets should be applied. In severe cases, oral treatment with drugs like fluconazole may also be necessary. Typically, symptoms of candidal vaginitis can be thoroughly alleviated after antifungal treatment. (Please follow medical advice regarding medication use.)

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What are the treatments for vaginitis?

If you are confirmed to have vaginitis, you should go to the hospital for a gynecological examination, and have a vaginal discharge test. The treatment for vaginitis should be based on the results of this routine vaginal discharge test to determine the type of vaginitis and the appropriate medication. While treating vaginitis, it is important to maintain cleanliness of the vulva by keeping it clean, tidy, and dry, washing the vulva, and wearing pure cotton, loose, and well-ventilated underwear. Underwear should be frequently aired out to keep the vulva clean.