The main treatment methods for vaginitis

Written by Luo Chun Yan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on December 25, 2024
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The primary treatment for vaginitis involves the use of local vaginal medications to improve the vaginal environment. Some cases also require oral medication for systemic treatment, but the crucial factor is identifying the type of vaginitis. For example, bacterial vaginitis can be treated primarily through oral medications, but local vaginal treatment is also an option. Yeast infections primarily involve local treatment with vaginal medications to alleviate symptoms. If there is no sexual activity and vaginal medication is unsuitable, oral medication can be used for systemic treatment. Trichomoniasis is mainly treated with oral medication for systemic treatment and should not be treated with local vaginal medications. Some types of vaginitis in elderly women can also be treated with local applications of estrogen cream or oral medication to supplement systemic estrogen therapy. Therefore, the main treatment methods for vaginitis depend on the specific type of infection.

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Is bacterial vaginitis caused by men?

Bacterial vaginosis is a common gynecological condition characterized by an increase in vaginal discharge that is grayish-white and thin in consistency, and may be accompanied by itching or burning of the vulva. It is not caused by a single pathogen, but rather a combination of various pathogens. However, the exact cause of changes in the vaginal flora is not clear. It may be related to unhygienic sexual practices with men or frequent sexual activity. It is advised to visit a gynecology outpatient clinic at a reputable local hospital to determine the specific cause. Under the guidance of a clinical doctor, standardized treatment should be administered.

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Is bacterial vaginitis sexually transmitted?

Bacterial vaginosis is not sexually transmitted. The occurrence of bacterial vaginosis is mainly due to changes in the vaginal environment, which leads to an imbalance of bacteria normally present in the vagina. Some bacteria become dominant, leading to the development of bacterial vaginosis. Most cases of bacterial vaginosis are due to low immunity in women, reduced body resistance, or long-term use of vaginal medications which disturb the vaginal environment, resulting in bacterial vaginosis. It is not classified as a sexually transmitted disease. For bacterial vaginosis, if there are obvious symptoms such as abnormal vaginal discharge or external genital itching, treatment with metronidazole or clindamycin can significantly relieve discomfort. In addition to medication, attention should be paid to the hygiene of the external genitalia and improving one’s immunity, as many cases of bacterial vaginosis can heal on their own. (Please follow medical advice when using medication.)

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Can bacterial vaginitis lead to pelvic inflammatory disease?

Bacterial vaginitis can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease. Bacterial vaginosis is a mixed infection caused by the imbalance of normal vaginal flora. When bacterial vaginosis occurs, the predominance of lactobacilli in the vagina decreases, leading to the overgrowth of other microorganisms such as Gardnerella, anaerobes, and some staphylococci. The proliferation of these pathogens can compromise the host's defense mechanisms. These pathogens can travel from the vagina to the uterine cavity and then to the pelvic cavity, leading to disturbances in the microecological environment of the pelvis and resulting in pelvic inflammatory disease.

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Does bacterial vaginitis affect menstruation?

Most bacterial vaginitis has no significant effect on menstruation. Because when women have bacterial vaginitis, it does not affect the ovarian secretion of estrogen, so it does not affect menstruation. Sometimes women develop bacterial vaginitis before menstruation and choose vaginal medication. Because the endometrial lining is relatively thick and menstruation is approaching, local medication may cause irritation, leading to the shedding of the endometrium. This is caused by local medication stimulation, not by affecting women's menstruation. Most cases of bacterial vaginitis are likely to recur after menstruation is over, so it is recommended that women undergo consolidation treatment for bacterial vaginitis after their periods are clean. In some women with bacterial vaginitis, particularly those with poor immunity, it might lead to acute cervicitis, and potentially further develop into endometritis. These conditions may cause women to experience prolonged menstrual bleeding, although this is relatively rare.

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How long does it generally take to treat bacterial vaginitis?

Bacterial vaginitis generally results in increased vaginal discharge, which appears grayish-white and thin, accompanied by mild vulvar itching and burning sensations. The treatment for bacterial vaginitis usually lasts about half a month, but it can vary depending on individual differences in body constitution and the severity of the condition, so the duration of treatment can also vary from person to person. For bacterial vaginitis, antibiotics or similar medications are typically used for anti-inflammatory treatment. It is important to maintain good hygiene, regularly change and sun-dry underwear, and wash them in hot water. Engaging in activities like running every evening can help improve physical fitness and boost the body's resistance.