Vaginal infections

Vaginal Infections and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

As well as thrush and urinary tract infections (UTIs) that can affect women, there are, however, other conditions that can affect the vagina, and these infections are becoming increasingly common.When the birth control pill took over as the main form of contraception for women, it replaced a variety of other methods, many of which acted as a barrier to sperm reaching an egg for fertilisation. But these methods did more than prevent sperm getting through, they also prevented diseases from entering the reproductive organs. Today, many women have had more than one sexual partner and there has been a dramatic increase in sexually transmitted disease (STDs). Some of the classic STDs, such as syphilis, are in decline (the result of early detection and improved methods of treatment), but they have been replaced by another group of infectious agents, which can cause discomfort and more serious problems.

What are these vaginal infections?

The two main infections are caused by either a bacteria (bacterial vaginosis) or by a tiny parasite, known as trichomonas vaginalis.

Bacterial vaginosis

This is the most common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge among women.

Trichomonas vaginalis

This is caused by a tiny parasite called a ‘trichomonad’, which lives in the vagina. It is spread by having sexual intercourse with someone who has the infection.

What are the symptoms?

Bacterial vaginosis
There are a number of potential symptoms, including:

• Itching, soreness and redness around the vagina, vulva or anus
• Grey or yellow vaginal discharge with a fishy smell, especially after sex
• A burning sensation when passing urine
• Pain during intercourse

You may suffer from some or all of these symptoms.

Trichomonas vaginalis

Unfortunately, there are fewer symptoms for this type of infection, and you may not even have any, which can make diagnosis a bit more difficult. You may, however, experience:

• Yellow or green vaginal discharge which is frothy and smells fishy
• Soreness and itching around the vagina

Bacterial vaginosis

This inflammation of the vagina develops when normal vaginal lactobacilli (‘healthy’ bacteria) are replaced by an overgrowth of Gardnerella vaginalis (unhealthy bacteria), anaerobic lactobacillis (unhealthy bacteria) and mycoplasmas (small organisms that infect your vagina or urinary tract).
In other words, there is a sudden imbalance in the natural bacteria of the body. Scientists are not sure what causes this imbalance, but when this infection is present the normal – slightly acidic – quality of the vagina changes to become more alkaline. The acid/alkaline balance in the body is known as a ‘pH balance’. It is suggested that a sudden shift in balance from acid to alkaline allows other bacteria to take hold.

Trichomonas vaginalis

This condition is sexually transmitted and is, therefore, only present if you have been in contact with someone carrying the parasite.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID is an umbrella term for any inflammation of the organs in the pelvis, and it is normally caused by an infection in any of the reproductive organs, including the womb, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, womb lining and/or vagina. PID is sexually transmitted and the symptoms can be very extreme. They include:

• Foul smelling vaginal discharge
• Fever
• Pain in the lower abdomen
• Breakthrough bleeding between periods
• Back pain
• Pain on intercourse
• A need to pass urine more frequently
• Pain when urinating

It is believed that the infection spreads from the area around the cervix and migrates upwards. The two most common organisms that are implicated in PID are Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
If you suffer from any of the symptoms listed above, you should see your doctor immediately. It is essential that a proper diagnosis is made and that any other reason for the symptoms, such as ectopic pregnancy or appendicitis, are ruled out.



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