In this video lesson we will learn more about an intimate disorder that affects many women closely ... a disorder that is not only annoying, but also unpleasant, irritating and dangerous. I'm talking about bacterial vaginosis.
Bacterial vaginosis is a disease of the vagina caused by bacteria. The most important aspect that we must remember when talking about vaginosis is that this disease is characterized by a profound alteration of the vaginal ecosystem. To understand the concept, we must take a step back and understand what is meant by human flora or microbiota. In this regard, you should know that different populations of microorganisms normally lodge on the surface and inside our body. Together, these microorganisms form the so-called “human flora”. The intestinal flora is particularly famous, so dear to the TV commercials of probiotic yogurts; in addition, we also have a skin flora, an oral flora, a conjunctival flora and even a vaginal flora. In normal conditions, therefore, the vagina is normally populated by various microorganisms, which are in a balanced condition between them. The most important bacteria in the vaginal ecosystem are the lactobacilli and as happens in other districts, both the lactobacilli and the organism benefit from this reciprocal coexistence. The lactobacillary flora feeds on the glycogen present in vaginal secretions and returns the favor by synthesizing lactic acid. And it is thanks to lactic acid that the vaginal environment is kept slightly acidic, at a pH of about 3.8-4.5. This acidity is particularly precious and important for the body, as it hinders the growth of other pathogens responsible for vaginal infections.
Having clarified this concept, in certain circumstances, an imbalance can be created in the vaginal flora in which microorganisms predominate which, normally, should not be present or which should be present only in limited quantities. All this to the detriment of good lactobacilli. Some germs can thus find favorable conditions and proliferate to the point of becoming dangerous and causing vaginosis. Among these microorganisms, one of the main ones is the Gardnerella vaginalis.
Any woman can get bacterial vaginosis, but certain activities and behaviors can significantly increase that risk. Unprotected sexual intercourse is, for example, a possible cause of vaginosis. In particular, vaginosis could be linked to a period of greater frequency of sexual intercourse. The sperm, in fact, increases the pH of the vagina in order to produce more favorable living conditions for the spermatozoa; however, as we have seen, such an increase in pH could favor the proliferation of some bacteria. Even local or systemic antibiotic therapies, the insertion of a coil, the too frequent use of vaginal douches or the use of intimate cleansers with inadequate pH, can upset the normal balance of the vaginal bacterial flora, thus predisposing to vaginosis.
Although vaginosis is not always accompanied by symptoms, in general, its presence is signaled by abundant white-greyish vaginal discharge, rather fluid and smelly. Some women affected by vaginosis compare the unpleasant odor of vaginal secretions to that of fish and report that they perceive it especially after sexual intercourse, the application of soap or menstruation. This bad odor is due to the production of particular germs. substances called amines Rarely, symptoms such as itching in the genitals, burning during urination and pain during sexual intercourse may occur in the presence of vaginosis.
In most cases, bacterial vaginosis does not cause serious complications, however, as we have seen, the increased vaginal pH that characterizes it increases the risk of contracting various sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. Bacterial vaginosis, moreover, it can favor the onset of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This disease, if not treated promptly and correctly, can damage the tubes, increasing the risk of ectopic pregnancies and even causing sterility. Bacterial vaginosis is contracted during pregnancy and is not treated properly, there is the possibility of premature birth, as the infection can spread to the amniotic membrane, causing it to rupture early.
Vaginosis can be diagnosed during a gynecological examination. The doctor observes the vagina and measures its pH, which in the case of bacterial vaginosis is typically higher than 4.5. In addition, during the examination, a sample of vaginal secretions is taken to be examined under the microscopic, for the search for bacteria related to vaginosis. By placing this sample in contact with an alkaline substance, such as potassium hydroxide, it releases a characteristic odor suggestive of vaginosis. The examination of the sample of vaginal secretions also highlights the classic "clue cells", or vaginal epithelial cells covered with numerous bacteria that give the cells a granular appearance. The presence of white blood cells on the slide indicates, on the other hand, a concomitant infection, such as gonorrhea or infection with Chlamydia, and requires a culture test.
Vaginosis sometimes regresses spontaneously, however, specific therapy is indicated in the presence of symptoms or complications. The most successful antibiotics are metronidazole, orally or vaginally, and clindamycin, in cream or gel to be applied locally. These drugs have the advantage of causing a rapid response, but should be combined with products capable of stimulating the proliferation of lactobacilli. In the presence of vaginosis it is in fact essential to restore the normal vaginal ecosystem by taking probiotics orally, or by using specific products for vaginal application. A diet rich in fiber and low in simple sugars, therefore in sweets, sweets can also help. , sugary drinks and so on. Finally, it should be remembered that during treatment it is always important to avoid contact or sexual intercourse to reduce the risk of reinfection.
To prevent vaginosis and imbalances in the vaginal bacterial flora it is important to follow a few simple tips. First of all, it is essential to take care of intimate hygiene. In this sense, the choice of intimate cleanser is essential and must be done in such a way that it does not damage the vaginal pH balance. Therefore, too frequent washing, vaginal douching when not prescribed, sprays for intimate hygiene and too aggressive or perfumed soaps are to be avoided. Furthermore, while washing the private parts, it is advisable to perform the movement starting from the vulva to get to the anus, never vice versa; this prevents fecal bacteria from spreading from the anal region to the vagina. Once the intimate hygiene operations have been completed, it is advisable to dry very well and delicately. Finally, another important piece of advice is to avoid wearing too tight synthetic undergarments. As for the diet, in addition to the general rules of proper nutrition, it is good to limit the intake of sugars.
