Bacterial Vaginosis ("Gardnerella")
More details/information for students
Definition
Signs and Symptoms
Complications
Testing
Treatment
Prevention
Gardnerella vaginalis is a common bacterium that may
cause symptoms of vaginitis in women. It does not seem to affect men.
Infection with Gardnerella vaginalis is not regarded as an STD, although
it generally occurs only in sexually active women. It is commonly
associated with "bacterial vaginosis", which is defined as the
replacement of the normal flora of the vagina by characteristic groups of
bacteria, together with symptoms or signs as described below.
Vaginal discharge - thin, creamy, and greyish, often
unpleasant and fishy in odour.
Vulval irritation, rather than itching.
The organisms associated with bacterial vaginosis have
been implicated in the development of pelvic
inflammatory disease and certain complications of pregnancy.
A vaginal smear can be taken and examined by microscope.
Characteristic "clue" cells are used to identify the condition.
Oral treatment with tinidazole or metronidazole. The
same side-effects and cautions apply as with treatment of trichomoniasis.
Acijel, a gel which can be inserted into the vagina,
restores the pH balance, and is also effective in preventing recurrence.
Male partners may act as reservoirs for reinfection, but
are usually not treated unless infection persists.
Many women have bacterial vaginosis. However, if it is
not causing symptoms, it does not usually require treatment. Exceptions to
this rule are cases where the woman is pregnant or where instrumentation
of the cervix is anticipated, e.g. insertion of IUD, curettage,
termination of pregnancy. In these circumstances, treatment may help
prevent some of the potential complications
of infection with Gardnerella and associated organisms.
It is important to maintain the normal acid pH of the
vagina.
It is important to avoid douching or use of so-called
feminine hygiene products.
The early use of Acijel if abnormal vaginal odour is
noted. |
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