Gardnerella vaginalis is a bacterium that is commonly associated with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) known as bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV is the most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age, and it is characterized by an imbalance of the vaginal microbiota.
Causes
Gardnerella vaginalis is a normal component of the vaginal microbiota in small quantities. However, when there is a disruption in the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina, it can lead to an overgrowth of G. vaginalis and other harmful bacteria. The exact cause of this imbalance is not fully understood, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing BV, such as:
- Poor vaginal hygiene
- Multiple sexual partners
- Douching
- Use of intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Smoking
- Use of antibiotics
Symptoms
Many women with Gardnerella vaginalis infection may not experience any symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Unusual vaginal discharge that is thin and grayish-white
- Strong “fishy” odor, especially after sexual intercourse
- Itching or irritation in the vaginal area
- Burning sensation during urination
Diagnosis
Diagnosing Gardnerella vaginalis infection and BV typically involves a medical history review, physical examination, and laboratory tests. During the physical examination, the healthcare provider may observe the characteristic signs of BV, such as a thin, grayish-white discharge and a fishy odor. Laboratory tests, such as a vaginal pH test and microscopy, can be done to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Gardnerella vaginalis infection is typically treated with antibiotics, such as metronidazole or clindamycin. These medications can be taken orally or applied topically as creams or gels. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics to ensure that the infection is fully treated.
Additionally, women with recurrent BV may be advised to make certain lifestyle changes to help prevent future episodes. These may include practicing good vaginal hygiene, avoiding douching, using condoms during sexual intercourse, and limiting the number of sexual partners.
Complications
If left untreated, Gardnerella vaginalis infection and BV can lead to complications. It can increase the risk of developing other sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. It can also increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause chronic pelvic pain and fertility problems.
Pregnant women with BV are at an increased risk of preterm delivery and low birth weight babies. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to be screened for BV and receive appropriate treatment if necessary.
Prevention
Practicing good vaginal hygiene and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prevent Gardnerella vaginalis infection and BV. This includes:
- Avoiding douching, as it can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina
- Using mild, fragrance-free soap to wash the vaginal area
- Avoiding the use of strong detergents or fabric softeners on underwear
- Wearing breathable cotton underwear
- Practicing safe sex, including the use of condoms
- Limiting the number of sexual partners
If experiencing any symptoms of a vaginal infection, it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What is Gardnerella vaginalis?
Gardnerella vaginalis is a bacterium that is commonly found in the vaginal flora of women. It is a gram-variable bacterium, which means it can appear as both positive and negative in gram staining. The bacterium is most known for its association with bacterial vaginosis, a condition characterized by an overgrowth of vaginal bacteria.
Gardnerella vaginalis is often present in small amounts in healthy women’s vaginas, along with other types of bacteria. However, when the balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, Gardnerella vaginalis can multiply and cause symptoms such as a fishy odor, abnormal vaginal discharge, and itching or irritation.
It is not fully understood why Gardnerella vaginalis becomes more dominant in some women and leads to bacterial vaginosis. However, certain factors are known to increase the risk of developing this condition, such as having multiple sexual partners, douching, and using certain types of contraceptives.
Treatment for Gardnerella vaginalis usually involves antibiotics, such as metronidazole or clindamycin. These medications help to restore the balance of bacteria in the vagina and eliminate the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence of the infection.
Summary:
- Gardnerella vaginalis is a bacterium commonly found in the vaginal flora of women.
- It is associated with bacterial vaginosis, a condition characterized by an overgrowth of vaginal bacteria.
- Gardnerella vaginalis can cause symptoms such as a fishy odor, abnormal vaginal discharge, and itching or irritation.
- Certain factors increase the risk of developing bacterial vaginosis, such as multiple sexual partners, douching, and using certain contraceptives.
- Treatment involves antibiotics to restore the balance of bacteria in the vagina.
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Family Medicine
In 2024 our team of doctors and nurses provide a comprehensive range of family planning services. Our doctors have expertise in antenatal care, preconception planning, and STD checks. Contraceptive advice including Mirena and Implanon insertion is available.
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