Gardnerella in women symptoms and causes. Medicinal collection for the preparation of sitz baths

Women's health is perhaps the most burning topic of conversation among the fair sex. Burning, itching in the genital tract, the appearance of an unpleasant odor cause great discomfort and require urgent medical measures.

There are many reasons for the appearance of such symptoms, but most often they are caused by dysbiotic processes in the vagina and the reproduction of opportunistic microorganisms in it - gardnerella. Thanks to up-to-date medical information and videos in this article, you will learn the symptoms and treatment of gardnerellosis in women.

Gardnerellosis, or bacterial vaginosis, is one of the most common gynecological pathologies. According to statistics, at least once every fifth woman has developed it.

It is interesting. The disease was named after the American scientist Herman Gardner, who discovered its causative agent, the bacterium Gardnerellavaginalis, in 1950.

At the heart of the pathogenesis of infection is vaginal dysbacteriosis. At the same time, the proportion of normal microflora represented by lactobacilli (Dederlein rods) is rapidly decreasing, and active reproduction of UPM (bacteria that are commonly called conditionally pathogenic), including gardnerella, occurs.

These microorganisms actively attach to epithelial structures, increasing their granularity and contributing to destruction. In microbiology, such altered cells are called key cells.

In the photo in the center - "key cell" - the main microscopic sign of the disease

The reasons

And what are the causes of gardnerellosis in women? Since the infection is bacterial in nature, it can be contracted through unprotected sexual contact from a partner. However, it should not be attributed to venereal diseases.

One of the possible routes of transmission is through sexual contact.

But more often gardnerellosis develops regardless of sexual contact. According to studies, a small number of bacteria of the genus Gadnerella is found in the vagina of healthy women.

As long as their number does not exceed the critical norm, they cannot cause pathological changes in the body and are considered absolutely safe. If the proportion of beneficial lactobacilli decreases, and these opportunistic microbes occupy a dominant position in the vaginal microflora, a disease develops.

Therefore, the causes of gardnerellosis in women can be as follows:

decreased immunity (due to adverse living conditions, chronic diseases, stress);
long-term use of high doses of antibiotics;
natural hormonal changes in the body - pregnancy and lactation, menopause;
concomitant urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases;
endocrine pathologies: diabetes mellitus, reduced thyroid gland;
non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene;
douching (especially with antiseptic solutions - Chlorhexidine, Miramistin);
taking certain drugs (glucocorticosteroids, antidepressants, drugs based on 9-nonoxynol).

Most often, gardnerellosis develops in women who often change sexual partners and have sex without a condom. In addition, due to the common ways of transmission of infection in this category of patients, the risk of infection with gonorrhea, chlamydia, ureaplasmosis and other sexually transmitted diseases increases significantly.

Clinical manifestations

The incubation period of bacterial vaginosis is small: it does not exceed 5-10 days. The course of the disease is slowly progressive.

Although the infection is not considered dangerous (it does not lead to infertility or other serious complications), it should be treated as soon as possible. Gardnerellosis not only causes a woman great discomfort, but can also be transmitted to her sexual partners through sexual contact.

First signs

The first symptoms of gardnerellosis in women immediately attract attention.

These include:

Unpleasant "rotten" smell from the genital tract reminiscent of the stench of rotten fish. At the same time, it intensifies after sex and even washing (since soap creates an alkaline environment in the vagina), and periods of freshness become shorter and shorter.
Allocations- with gardnerellosis in women, they are not abundant, grayish-white or cream in color.

If the disease is not treated

The progression of gardenerrellosis leads to such unpleasant symptoms as:

burning, itching or other discomfort in the perineum;
pain in the lower abdomen (one of the signs of vaginitis);
discomfort during sex;
creamy discharge;
sometimes - pain when urinating, excretion of urine in small portions.

Important! Often, vaginosis develops against the background of other diseases of the genitourinary system - candidiasis, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea. In this case, the clinical manifestations of the pathology become erased, which makes it difficult to diagnose.

Diagnostic principles

Before prescribing treatment for gardnerellosis in women, the doctor must conduct a comprehensive assessment of the patient's condition.

To diagnose the disease, it is enough:

collect complaints and anamnesis;
conduct a visual examination of the external genitalia and cervix in the mirrors;
take a smear on the flora;
determine the pH of the vagina;
test for isonitrile.

An important role in the diagnosis is played by a regular smear on the flora. Microscopic examination of the obtained biomaterial allows you to identify gardnerella and calculate its amount.

Valuable are also tests for determining the pH of the vagina (due to alkalization, its sharp increase is observed) and one of the waste products of bacteria - isonitrile (determined in secretions).

Note! It is not advisable to conduct immunological tests and PCR diagnostics for gardnerellosis. It is not the fact of the presence of the pathogen in the body that is important, but the increase in its quantity.

Approaches to therapy

And how to treat gardnerellosis in women? First of all, it is necessary to eliminate the factors that provoke the development of the disease.

Standard instructions for patients include:

Refusal of unreasonable and uncontrolled intake of antimicrobial drugs.
Sex with a regular sexual partner, the exclusion of casual relationships.
Use of condoms.
Taking oral contraceptives and other hormonal drugs only after consulting a doctor.
Refusal to douche.
Healthy and varied diet: avoiding fatty, fried, overly salty and spicy foods. The use of a sufficient amount of fruits, vegetables and dairy products (contribute to the restoration of the population of lactobacilli).

Note! With bacterial vaginosis, it is contraindicated to use spermicides, as well as condoms and vaginal rings treated with 9-nonoxynol, since this substance alkalizes the environment and provokes the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

The first stage of drug therapy

After eliminating the external causes, the specialist proceeds to the destruction of the infectious agent. Antibiotic therapy is carried out. Since the selection of the drug is carried out individually, based on many factors, it is important that it be prescribed by a doctor. How is gardnerellosis usually treated in women?

Standard therapeutic regimens involve the use of one of the powerful antimicrobial agents:

Metronidazole- 0.5 g × 2r / d (7 days) or 2 g once;
Ornizadola- 0.5 g × 2 r / d (5 days);
Clindamycin–0.3 g × 2 r/d (3 days);
Wilprafen- 0.5 × 3 r / d (7 days).

Important! At the time of therapy, you should stop drinking strong drinks.

In addition to taking tablet forms of antibiotics, local therapy is possible. Most often, vaginal creams, gels and suppositories are prescribed for gardnerellosis in women.

Among the drugs of choice:

Clindamycin (cream, 2%);
Metronidazole (gel, 0.75%);
Dalacin (cream, 2%);
Flagyl (vaginal suppositories).

In rare cases, specialists stop at exclusively local treatment, but its effectiveness is much lower compared to systemic antibiotic therapy.

For several decades, Metronidazole for gardnerellosis in women has remained one of the most popular drugs. This antibiotic has a broad action profile and is active against most bacteria, Trichomonas, and protozoa. Contraindicated in case of individual intolerance, leukopenia, diseases of the central nervous system, liver damage, pregnancy.

Ornidazole is also often prescribed to patients: with gardnerellosis in women, it quickly destroys pathogenic microorganisms and has virtually no side effects. It is undesirable to take it during the first trimester of pregnancy, with decompensated diseases of the liver and kidneys, and individual intolerance.

If bacterial vaginosis is combined with candidiasis (thrush), the appointment of combined antimicrobial and antifungal drugs is indicated:

Terzhinan;
Klion-D;
Neo-Penotran.

Important! After completing a course of antibiotic therapy to control treatment, it is necessary to take a smear from the vagina again.

The second stage of drug therapy

The treatment regimen for bacterial vaginosis necessarily includes the appointment of probiotics. These funds help in the restoration of normal microflora and the fight against opportunistic bacteria. Popular drugs for the treatment of gardnerellosis in women are presented in the table below.

Table: Probiotics in the treatment of gardnerellosis:

Name, manufacturer	Mode of application	A course of treatment	average price
	1 capsule × 1r/d	10 days	Capsules 180 mg, 15 pcs. - 660 rubles.
	2-3 doses × 2 r / d. Dilute the powder in 5 ml of boiled water, use intravaginally	7-10 days	Lyophilization 2 billion cfu/dose, 10 pcs. - 170 r.
	1 supp. × 1 r/d (overnight)	5-10 days	Vaginal suppositories, 10 pcs. - 120 r.

Note! It does not contain strains of beneficial bacteria, but the drug Vaginorm-C (vaginal tablets) improves the vaginal microflora. Due to the content of ascorbic acid, it lowers the pH to normal values and creates optimal conditions for the reproduction of Dederlein sticks.

Traditional medicine recipes

As an auxiliary therapy for the disease, drugs based on medicinal plants and natural adaptogens are widely used. However, remember that the treatment of gardnerellosis in women with folk remedies is possible only in the absence of concomitant sexually transmitted infections, as well as signs of inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

Important! Alternative medicine, like any medicine, has its contraindications. Be sure to consult your doctor before starting therapy.

Sitz baths from decoction of oak bark

Ingredients:

oak bark - 250 g;
water - 0.75 l.

Pour the prepared raw materials with cool water and leave for 3-4 hours. Then boil the liquid for 15 minutes, cool to a comfortable temperature and strain. Pour into a shallow basin and use for sitz baths at bedtime. The duration of treatment is 10-14 days.

Medicinal collection for the preparation of sitz baths

Ingredients:

juniper berries;
Oak bark;
chamomile flowers;
walnut leaves;
oatmeal straw.

200 g of the crushed mixture, made up of ingredients taken in equal proportions, pour a liter of boiling water. Infuse for 45 minutes under the lid. Strain and pour into a sitz basin.

Aloe juice tampons

Take 5-10 ml of aloe juice (it is desirable that the plant is more than three years old) and soak a small cotton swab with it. Insert a tampon into the vagina and leave for 7-8 hours (preferably overnight). Course - 7 days.

Gardnerellosis is one of the most common "female" diseases. Discomfort in the vagina and perineum, as well as foul-smelling discharge, are the first to indicate dysbacteriosis of the vaginal microflora and require timely treatment.

Having successfully completed a two-stage therapy, a woman will get rid of unpleasant symptoms, feeling comfortable and confident.

Questions to the doctor

Gardnerellosis during pregnancy

Irina, 23 years old: I am pregnant, 27 weeks. At the last examination, she complained to the doctor that unusual white discharge appeared, passed a smear, and such a “surprise” was found there - gardnerella. Tell me, is this disease dangerous for the baby, and how is it treated?

Hello! Gardnerellosis often develops in expectant mothers. This is due to a powerful hormonal restructuring in the body, and a possible decrease in immunity against the background of bearing a fetus.

The theoretical danger of the disease lies in the suppression of the growth of the normal microflora of the vagina - Dederlein's sticks, and the alkalization of the acidic environment, which is a natural protective barrier in the genital tract. In other words, with gardnerellosis, favorable conditions are created for the reproduction of other pathogenic bacteria (for example, ureaplasmas, mycoplasmas).

Therefore, it is necessary to treat the disease. During pregnancy, the treatment regimen usually includes the appointment of a local antibiotic (for example, Terzhinan or Dalacin) and probiotic preparations. Be healthy!

Treatment of combined genitourinary infections

Nina, 27 years old: Recently I went to the gynecologist to take tests. I was diagnosed with gardnerella and ureaplasma. Is it dangerous? How are these diseases treated?

Hello! Gardnerellosis and ureaplasmosis are among the most common infections among sexually active women. In itself, the detection of these pathogens is not considered a problem (they are determined in 50-60% of all the fair sex). Therapy should only be started if:

a woman complains of discomfort, pain, discharge from the genital tract;
the doctor diagnosed objective signs of vaginitis, urethritis, endocervicitis;
there are signs of inflammation according to the results of a smear from the vagina;
titers of microorganisms exceed the permissible values.

The treatment regimen for gardnerellosis and ureaplasmosis in women usually involves the appointment of doxycycline, macrolides (Azithromycin, Josamycin) or fluoroquinolones (Ofloxacin, Levofloxacin). It is also important to strengthen the immune system and restore normal vaginal microflora with the help of probiotics.

Gardnerellosis in men

Valentina, 24 years old: They found bacterial vaginosis in me, now I'm taking antibiotics. And whether it is necessary to be surveyed and treated to my husband? The gynecologist didn't say anything about it.

Hello! For a long time, gardnerellosis was considered an exclusively female disease and was even called "vaginal dysbacteriosis." And today, in the scientific literature, it is noted that in the male body, the bacterium Gardnerella vaginalis practically does not take root, retaining its viability from several hours to several days.

However, in about 10% of cases (usually against the background of concomitant infections of the genitourinary system), gardnerellosis can develop in representatives of the strong half of humanity. Usually the disease manifests itself in the form of urethritis and is accompanied by pains of a cutting nature during urination, mild discharge from the urethra.

Therefore, your sexual partner should be treated only if he has complaints. To completely eliminate the risk of re-infection with gardnerella, give up sexual intimacy for the entire period of taking antibiotics.

There are many diseases affecting the female reproductive system. One of the most common diseases that bring discomfort to a woman is gardnerellosis.

This pathology is not considered a classic venereal disease, but its course can be protracted, and the path to a complete cure can be long.

Let's take a look at all the details: what are the symptoms and signs of gardnerellosis in women, the treatment of the disease and the possible consequences.

The essence of the disease and the bacterium Gardnerella vaginalis

A certain microflora is present in the woman's vagina, including a mass of microorganisms - both beneficial (lactobacilli) and conditionally pathogenic. Their ratio in a healthy woman is optimal for the health of the reproductive system and the whole organism.

However in certain situations, conditionally pathogenic flora begins to multiply actively, displacing the beneficial.

The microorganism gardnerella vaginalis just belongs to the category of opportunistic pathogens. Normally, its amount in the genital tract is negligible, or there is a complete absence.

In case of violation of the biocenosis due to the use of antibiotics, promiscuous sexual intercourse, the use of contraceptive suppositories, gardnerella vaginalis actively multiplies, displacing beneficial microorganisms.

Gardnerellosis is called bacterial vaginosis, which develops due to dysbacteriosis of the genital tract. With this disease, pathogenic microbes have a negative effect on the vagina, causing an inflammatory process.

Where does pathology come from: causes and ways of transmission

Where does gardnerella come from in women, what are its causes? Gardnerellosis develops for a number of reasons that gynecologists consider classic:

the use of potent antibiotics that kill the microflora in the intestines, vagina, undermining the optimal ratio of microorganisms;
douching, which women do on their own, as a result, the beneficial flora is simply washed away;
the use of antiseptics for douching with a powerful antibacterial effect;
the use of contraceptives containing the substance 9-nonoxyl, which can have a detrimental effect on lactobacilli;
promiscuity, frequent change of sexual partners;
sexual intercourse without contraception.

In order for the gardnerella to begin to actively multiply, causing bacterial vaginosis, several reasons are needed.

Although in females with a weakened immune system, the disease can start in the presence of one factor.

Infection occurs through sexual contact without the use of barrier contraceptives.

Is gardnerella transmitted from woman to man and vice versa, can a man infect a woman? The source of the infection is a sick woman. The main ways of infection are from a woman to a man, and vice versa.

Although some doctors say that gardnerella cannot take root in the male body, men act as the transmission of the microorganism.

Some argue that there is an oral route of infection. But it has been proven that gardnerella cannot exist and develop on the mucous membrane in the oral cavity. Therefore, this route of infection transmission is called into question.

Classification

Like most ailments that affect the female genitourinary system, gardnerellosis has a certain classification. Gynecologists often classify the disease according to the severity of the course:

bacterial vaginosis of the compensated type - with this course of the disease, according to the analyzes, there is a slight presence of opportunistic flora in patients;
bacterial vaginosis of the subcompensated type - the number of beneficial lactobacilli decreases significantly with an increase in opportunistic flora, including gardnerella;
vaginosis of the decompensated type - the beneficial flora is almost completely replaced by the pathogenic one, the inflammatory process is strong, pronounced, the nature of the change in the epithelial layer.

Clinical picture

The disease can affect women at any age, including very young girls and women of age.

How does gardnerella manifest itself in women? Pathology can develop:

asymptomatic - the disease is diagnosed by tests, the woman does not present any complaints, pain and discharge are not observed;
with a pronounced clinical picture - pain and cramps, discharge, feeling unwell.

The incubation period of gardnerellosis in women - from the moment gardnerella enters the genital tract until the moment of manifestation - ranges from a week to 20 days. During this period, the pathogenic flora begins to gradually spread, displacing the beneficial one.

The onset of the disease is characterized by mild symptoms - slight discomfort, weak discharge. A vivid clinical picture appears on the 14-20th day - the symptoms are pronounced, the discharge is plentiful, the pain syndrome and discomfort are maximum.

The main signs indicating the development of gardnerellosis:

Bad smell from the genital tract- often this is the first symptom of the development of vaginosis; the smell is fetid, sharp, similar to the aroma of decaying fish, which is due to the decomposition of amines due to the rapid reproduction of gardnerella.
Vaginal discharge- their nature varies depending on the severity of the disease. At the initial stage of the discharge, they look like a mucous translucent and turbid liquid, as the pathological process worsens, the discharge becomes gray, opaque, viscous, acquires a green or yellow tint.
At the advanced stage of the discharge, layers form on the walls of the vagina, causing swelling and redness. A characteristic feature of discharge in gardnerellosis is a bad smell.
Sudden disruption of the menstrual cycle may indicate the development of bacterial vaginosis.
Discomfort in the urinary tract- as the pathogenic flora multiplies, itching and burning appear in the urethra, labia, vagina, mucous membranes may look swollen, inflamed.
The development of diseases affecting the organs of the urinary system- indicate the presence of gardnerellosis. This is due to the close proximity of the location of the genitals and urinary tract.
Pain during intercourse- soreness can occur immediately during proximity and persist after.
Pain during urination- occurs when the infection spreads to the urethra.
General malaise- the pathological process can lead to a general disturbance of well-being, a feeling of weakness, possibly an increase in temperature as a result of the active reproduction of negative microbes.

Diagnostic measures

The danger of the disease is in its possible latent course, without complaints and signs. In this case, a woman, unaware of the presence of vaginosis, can infect her sexual partners. With a bright onset of the disease, timely seeking medical help is important. A doctor whose competence is the treatment of gardnerellosis is a gynecologist.

Diagnosis of the disease should be comprehensive, it is important to differentiate gardnerellez with other diseases of the urogenital area - vulvitis,.

The main methods used to establish the diagnosis:

Gynecological examination. At the initial appointment, the doctor collects information about sexual life, methods of contraception, and the regularity of the cycle.
Obligatory examination on a chair using gynecological mirrors in order to examine the vagina.
during which the presence of pathogenic microorganisms will be determined.
Taking a smear for markers of vaginosis.
Determination of the level of acidity in the vagina using special test strips.
PCR diagnostics is a polymer chain reaction method.
A reaction to isonitrile is a substance that appears in the vagina with gardnerellosis and gives the discharge the smell of rotten fish.

In a woman with gardnerellez, a smear shows a low amount of lactobacilli - 20-30% instead of the prescribed 90%, an increased number of leukocytes, an alkaline environment instead of the usual acidic one. When examining a smear, it can be seen that own cells are completely covered with gardnerella.

Allows you to determine the severity of the course of the pathology, its spread to the urinary organs. After confirming the diagnosis, the doctor can additionally perform a colcoscopy to establish the presence of inflammatory processes in the cervix.

What is dangerous infection

This disease is not purely sexually transmitted, but concomitant treatment is necessary. With a long course of gardnerellosis without classic signs in the form of discharge, pain, discomfort in the genital tract, serious complications can develop.

In women, untimely and improper treatment can provoke the development of inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs, including adhesive disease, metroendometritis - inflammation of the muscular layer of the uterus.

Other consequences:

With timely access to a gynecologist and adequately prescribed therapy, gardnerellosis is successfully treated.

Even a neglected disease can be cured by fully restoring women's health.

How and what to treat: drug regimens

Treatment is carried out in several stages:

destruction of the pathogen itself;
restoration of optimal microflora in the vagina;
general strengthening therapy - to increase immunity.

Antibiotics

The first stage, aimed at suppressing the pathogenic flora and further preventing its growth. It is important to determine the sensitivity of gardnerella to a particular antibiotic in order for the treatment to be successful.

The main groups of antibiotics used in the treatment of gardnerellosis:

Antibiotic therapy averages 7-10 days in dosages calculated depending on the age, weight of patients, and the severity of inflammation.

The generally accepted dosage is at least 500 mg per day for drugs containing metronidazole, trichopolum; 300 mg - for Clindamycin.

With mild and moderate course of the disease, a single dose of Metronidazole in the amount of 2 g is possible.

Candles

The use of suppositories is relevant when the disease is not started. Basically, suppositories are actively prescribed for pregnant women., because their plus is not a systemic effect on the entire body, but an action directly on the problematic focus - the genital tract, the vagina.

Drug therapy with supporosis is carried out within 7-8 days, in severe cases, the period is increased to 10 days. The dosage is individually selected by the gynecologist, usually the maximum is prescribed in the first 2-3 days, then the dose is slightly adjusted.

Popular candles in the treatment of gardnerellosis:

Terzhinan- a complex preparation in the form of vaginal tablets, contains antimicrobial and antifungal components;
Metrovagin- contains metronidazole, which is detrimental to anaerobic infections;
Hexicon- candles containing chlorhexidine, which destroys harmful microbes without affecting lactobacilli;
Macmirror in the form of suppositories - has a detrimental effect on opportunistic and pathogenic microorganisms, additionally contains nystatin.

Other medicines

After the destruction of the pathogen, it is important to continue treatment with medications that will help relieve unpleasant symptoms in the vagina and restore the optimal balance of microflora.

Lactobacilli for in the form of suppositories or tablets for oral administration will help to establish the “correct” biocenosis, due to which itching and burning, discomfort in the abdomen will pass. For such purposes appoint:

Bifidumbacterin in the form of a lyophilisate;
Atsilakt in the form of candles;
Lactobacterin - suppositories and powder.

The course of taking such funds should be at least 14 days, more often it will take a month for the beneficial microflora to take root and local immunity rises - in the intestines and vagina.

For the general strengthening of the immune system, immunomodulators are prescribed, which will help in the future to resist the reproduction of pathogenic flora.

The most effective are the following:

Wobenzym;
Genferon in candles;
Immunal;
Interferon.

The course of application is from 10 to 14 days, after a break, repetition is possible for a better effect.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicines are considered safe, their action is based on herbs and plant materials with antimicrobial and astringent effects- oak bark, chamomile, sage, string.

Apply oils that can heal damaged mucous membranes - olive, sea buckthorn.

But despite the safety, it is better not to carry out treatment without the permission of a doctor.. Alternative methods can be used in combination with drug therapy to relieve symptoms.

To destroy the pathogen and prevent the development of the disease, herbs and other remedies from oils, honey are not able to.

Popular recipes of traditional medicine in the treatment of gardnerellosis:

Optimal duration of therapy, partner treatment

The average duration of treatment for bacterial vaginosis is almost 2 months., of which antibiotic therapy lasts 7-10 days, about 14-30 days the microflora is restored by taking biological preparations, about 2 weeks are needed to raise the body's defenses.

The complexity of the treatment lies in the fact that the disease can return. At the slightest provoking factors - hypothermia, stress - gardnerella again begins to become more active. Therefore, it is important to repeat courses of drug therapy periodically.

Treatment of a partner is a must. Although gardnerellosis does not cause a severe course in men, inflammation of the urethra can occur. Yes, and a woman who has recovered from an illness can re-pick up an infection from an untreated partner.

Men are more likely to be prescribed antimicrobial agents in the form of ointments and creams.(Metronidazole gel) - they act on the focus of inflammation, destroying the pathogen. It is important to conduct a control examination for both - the woman and the partner, in the absence of infection and clinical manifestations in the smear, the disease is considered defeated.

The doctor will tell you more about the treatment of this disease:

Gardnerellosis in pregnant women

This misfortune is also diagnosed in pregnant women at different times. For the fetus, the disease does not pose a danger - bacteria cannot get to the child through the blood and placenta. But untreated pathology can complicate the course of pregnancy and the birth process, the condition of the woman herself. List of possible complications:

premature birth;
early breakthrough of the amniotic sac;
postpartum endometritis - inflammation in the uterus.

It is possible and necessary to treat gardnerella in women during pregnancy. Gynecologists prescribe softer and sparing preparations with local action.

Antibiotics are contraindicated, especially in the early stages. Suppositories with clindamycin or Terzhinan vaginal tablets destroy the pathogenic flora in the vagina without being absorbed into the general bloodstream, respectively, penetration through the placenta is excluded.

Equally important for pregnant women who are being treated for vaginosis is the use of fermented milk products in the form of bio-yogurts, kefir. This helps create the right balance of beneficial bacteria.

Pregnant it is important to periodically take smears to determine the "harmful" microflora to timely diagnose and treat infectious diseases of the genital tract.

Consequences, prognosis - is it possible to cure completely and forever

If the treatment is tested correctly, with the use of antimicrobials, general tonics and medications that help restore the “correct” microflora, the risk of negative consequences for the body is minimized.

A common complication is the weakening of the body's defenses. He will need time to bounce back.

If the disease has been started, there may be problems with the urinary tract (cystitis), reproductive health (menstrual cycle failure, inflammation of the ovaries and appendages).

In general, the prognosis is favorable, serious complications are rare. The main thing is to recognize the disease at the very beginning.

Preventive measures

Gardnerellosis is an unpleasant and dangerous disease, so it is better to prevent its development. The basis of prevention is taking care of the health of the genitourinary system and the whole organism. Therefore, it is important to strengthen the immune system with the help of simple measures:

proper nutrition;
rejection of bad habits;
rational mode of work and rest;
avoidance of stressful and conflict situations.

A woman should avoid hypothermia, regularly observe the hygiene of the genital organs, and for these purposes it is important to choose the right cleansers with lactic acid, the use of which will not cause acidity in the vagina.

Hygiene should be especially careful during critical days.- frequent replacement of pads, refusal, if possible, of the frequent use of tampons.

If unprotected contact has occurred, antiseptics should be immediately applied to treat the genital tract (Miramistin, Chlorhexidine).

With any warning signs - slight itching, incomprehensible discharge, discomfort - a reason for a visit to the gynecologist.

Gardnerellosis is an insidious disease. Although it is not considered as severe as an STD, it can undermine a woman's health and worsen the quality of life. Timely detection of infection, the correct approach to treatment and respect for your body will allow you to maintain excellent health for a long time.

And in conclusion, even more useful and important information about gardnerellosis:

Gardnerella in women is a fairly common occurrence these days. Gardnerella is a pathogenic microorganism that provokes the disease gardnerellosis, or bacterial vaginosis. The disease affects women, but men are carriers. In the normal microflora of a woman, there are beneficial lactobacilli bacteria that produce lactic acid, which prevents an increase in the number of pathogenic microorganisms, and only a small amount of gardnerella. A large concentration of anaerobic bacteria leads to a malfunction of lactobacilli and reduces their number, while vaginal dysbacteriosis develops. This condition is inherent in women of childbearing age, since when menopause occurs, the hormonal background and microflora change.

Causes of the disease

Gardnerellosis in women appears when certain conditions occur that are favorable for the reproduction of pathogenic bacteria and a decrease in the number of lactobacilli.

The reasons for this imbalance are as follows:

taking antibiotics, hormonal drugs, including contraceptives, and other drugs that affect the microflora of the human body;
frequent and indiscriminate change of sexual partners - can lead to infection with one of the infectious diseases of the reproductive system, and at the same time the growth of gardnerella vaginalis bacteria;
overwork, stress, hypothermia, weakened immunity;
hormonal disruptions, especially in pregnant women, for them thrush and gardnerellez are common phenomena;
general diseases of the body;
the presence of sexually transmitted diseases and genital infections;
local products that cause an imbalance of microflora: suppositories, douching, tampons, vaginal capsules;
severe intoxication of the body;
endocrine diseases - especially diabetes mellitus, which causes an imbalance in the alkaline balance of the vagina and, as a result, an increase in the number of harmful bacteria;
any surgical intervention in the reproductive system - abortion, medical gynecological procedures;
frequent use of barrier contraception - using condoms, especially with a new partner, is necessary to avoid contracting an STI, but the lubricant included in it in some women can provoke the reproduction of gardnerella and a fungus that causes candidiasis;
pathology can be transmitted from an infected mother to a daughter at the time of birth, but this diagnosis is usually not made to newborns. For prevention, the baby is prescribed drug therapy.

Symptoms of gardnerellosis in women

There are not many symptoms that indicate the presence of gardnerella, and they are similar to other gynecological diseases. Gardnerellosis can occur in a chronic or acute form. In the first variant, the signs are invisible. In the acute form of the disease, a woman feels:

itching in the genitals;
discomfort during intimacy with a partner;
grayish-white or yellowish discharge, with a peculiar smell of rotten fish;
pain in the lower abdomen;
inflammatory processes in the genital organs.

Note! Often, women, having discovered the listed symptoms, begin self-medication with the help of douching, which is not acceptable, since, firstly, the normal microflora and beneficial bacteria are washed out, and secondly, gardnerellez is exacerbated.

According to modern data, douching is not related to any hygienic, preventive, or therapeutic procedure. In addition, it can cause inflammation in the vagina and ectopic pregnancy.

Diagnosis of gardnerella in women

Basically, diagnostic methods are based on examination and laboratory tests. On examination, the gynecologist draws attention to the condition of the organs of the genitourinary system: redness or swelling, changes in the cervix. A smear is also taken and examined under a microscope, this is the most informative method by which the number of gardnerella vaginalis bacteria in the microflora is detected. Other methods of laboratory research are not so accurate and practically ineffective.

The next method for determining the presence of the disease is the study of the pH level of the vagina. With the active reproduction of pathogenic bacteria, it becomes alkaline.

In some cases, more complete laboratory studies of PCR are necessary, this type of diagnostics makes it possible to determine with high accuracy the presence in the human body of any pathogen that causes a violation of the vaginal microflora and an increase in pathogenic microorganisms in its composition.

Another method is to check for isonitrile, which reveals a large number of gardnerella.

Three criteria indicate the presence of the disease:

the number of bacteria on the squamous epithelium, exceeding the norm;
alkaline nature of pH;
discharge with an unpleasant odor.

Treatment of gardnerellosis

If the analysis for gardnerella showed the presence of the disease, it is necessary to start treatment as soon as possible until the disease has flowed into a chronic form with possible complications. Therapy is prescribed by the attending physician on the basis of the studies. First of all, you need to eliminate the causes of gardnerellosis:

if it is caused by another infection, then first of all it is necessary to eliminate it with the help of a rational use of antibiotics, which excludes a long and uncontrolled intake of drugs that suppress lactobacilli;
refusal of promiscuous sexual intercourse and the use of barrier contraceptives;
normalization of the hormonal background, if possible, refusal to take hormonal drugs;
restoration of normal intestinal microflora with the help of medicines containing live bacteria, for example, Linex, Bifiform;
refusal to douche the vagina;
boosting immunity with vitamins and immunomodulators.

Medical treatment

The treatment of pathology includes several medications that are used in the form of suppositories for gardnerellosis, vaginal creams and tablets. The average course is seven days. The treatment regimen for gardnerellosis is complex and consists of two parts:

Reducing the number of gardnerella present on the mucosa using systemic antibiotics: Metronidazole, Clindamycin. In combination with them, topical preparations are used: Clindamycin cream, Metronidazole gel.
Restoration of the microflora of the vagina and intestines, which is achieved by taking special products that contain lactobacilli: Lactobacterin, Lactonorm, and the use of topical preparations in the form of suppositories: Acylact, Lactonorm.

Also, for more effective treatment of gardnerella in women, it is important to follow a diet that excludes the intake of fatty, spicy and fried foods and alcohol. Eat dairy products that contain beneficial microorganisms.

The main actions of therapy are aimed at restoring the normal microflora of the vagina and eliminating the main causes that provoked the development of the disease. The effectiveness of the treatment can be judged by the elimination of the symptoms of gardnerella in women, as well as with the help of bacterioscopy, which is carried out a week after the full course, repeated - after a month and a half.

Important! Throughout the course of treatment, a woman must refrain from sexual intercourse or be sure to use condoms. A man needs to be examined to prevent possible re-infection of his partner.

Folk methods

Treatment of gardnerellosis with folk remedies can only be carried out with the main treatment and preferably in consultation with the attending physician. It can contribute to the normalization of microflora and be an excellent prevention of diseases of the genitourinary system in the future, it also supports the body during drug therapy and strengthens the immune system. In combination with the main treatment, you can use the following recipes:

An equal amount of mint, celandine, chamomile, thyme, geranium, birch leaves, licorice roots and elecampane is taken. Pour two tablespoons of the collection with a liter of boiling water and leave for eight hours. Then strain the infusion and drink half a glass before eating three times a day. The course lasts one month. This tool improves immunity and body resistance.
Take nettle leaves, wormwood, lavender, marshmallow root, pine buds and blueberry leaves in equal parts and prepare the infusion in the same way, take it in the same way as the first option. These two infusions during treatment can be alternated to increase efficiency.
Take fresh or dry walnut leaves and chop, then pour boiling water and leave for one hour. Drink in small sips throughout the day. The course lasts at least a week. The use of this agent has a good bactericidal effect.
Pour one tablespoon of crushed sage leaves with one glass of boiling water and let it brew for half an hour. Drink two glasses of infusion per day for 1-2 months. This tool restores the mucous membrane of the vagina.
To improve the functioning of the immune system, it is recommended to use an infusion of blackcurrant leaves. To do this, pour two tablespoons of crushed leaves of the plant with two glasses of boiling water and insist for an hour. You need to drink half a glass an hour before meals 3-4 times a day. The duration of treatment is 2-3 months.

Prevention of the onset of the disease

Due to the fact that the restoration of the normal microflora of the vaginal mucosa is a complex and lengthy process, it is best to follow measures to prevent the development of gardnerellosis:

limit indiscriminate sexual intercourse, which provoke the occurrence of sexual infections and, as a result, an increase in the number of gardnerella;
use condoms during sexual intercourse;
once every six months, undergo an examination and examination by a gynecologist to identify possible diseases of the genital area, inflammatory processes and microflora disorders;
eat right, use fermented milk products to maintain normal microflora;
try to avoid stress;
fully rest;
maintain immunity.

Compliance with these simple measures will help to avoid an imbalance in the microflora of the vagina and the reproduction of gardnerella. But even if the disease has appeared, it is important to give importance to the symptoms that have arisen and immediately contact a gynecologist. Timely treatment is much easier and more effective, and also helps to avoid the chronic form of the disease and possible negative consequences.

In women, it is a fairly common disease. At one time it was believed that infection occurs through intimacy. But in today's world, women's health is influenced by many factors. And although the appearance of many female diseases, for some reason, most people associate more with intimacy with a new man, at the same time, the problem may be associated with the impact of aggressive external factors on the bacteria of the female microflora. For example, weakened immunity, taking antibiotics, dysbacteriosis in the gastrointestinal tract, changes in hormonal levels, etc. In this article, we will deal with this disease in more detail, find out where it comes from and tell you how gardnerellosis is treated in women.

Causes: where does the infection come from?

As already mentioned, the disease can appear during unprotected sexual intercourse, however, in addition to this, the method of contraception plays an important role. When using contraceptives, a violation of the normal microflora occurs, which contributes to the penetration of various infections. Douching is also not useful for the female body, as the favorable microflora is washed out. Here are the main causes of women's health problems:

Menstrual irregularities;
Inflammatory processes in the genitourinary system, infectious diseases;
Violation of the microflora due to the intake of certain medications;
Prolonged use of intrauterine contraception;
Weakened immunity;
Dysbacteriosis in the gastrointestinal tract;
Tension at work, in the family, constant psycho-emotional overstrain.

It can be said with a high degree of probability that the appearance of gardnerella will be associated with a lack of the required amount of bacteria that provide comfortable microflora in the vagina. However, pathogenic bacteria are also present in a healthy microflora, but not in the amount in which they can cause some discomfort in women.

The presence of gardnerella bacteria in a woman's body is quite common. A healthy microflora prevents these bacteria from multiplying due to the production of lactic acid in the required amount, which neutralizes harmful microorganisms.

The reason for the appearance of gardnerella is the superiority with the numerical advantage of harmful gardnerella bacteria over bacteria that maintain a healthy vaginal microflora. The result of this process is that the microflora turns into alkaline, which in turn contributes to the penetration of various infections into the vagina, this provokes the development of inflammatory processes.

Symptoms and treatment of gardnerella

Of course, before proceeding with the treatment of a detected disease, it is necessary to consult with a specialist in this field, who will help to establish the cause of this disease.

Usually, in the first stages, the disease does not manifest itself in any way, which is dangerous. If treatment is not started on time, the consequences can be much more frightening. Therefore, do not neglect annual (f is better more often, for example, once every six months) preventive examinations by a gynecologist. If a woman observes the following symptoms in herself, then most likely she needs to see a specialist in the near future, since the risk of developing a disease such as gardnerellosis is high:

The appearance of non-characteristic secretions of various colors (may be gray, yellow or green, as well as a transparent color) of a homogeneous mass and an unpleasant odor;
The appearance of itching, burning and other uncomfortable sensations in the vagina;
Swelling of the labia, irritation;
Pain during intercourse. Gardnerellosis in women is transmitted to men sexually.

In pregnant women, infection with this disease can manifest itself as follows:

Uterine bleeding with subsequent inflammatory processes, infection of the baby;
Underweight, pneumonia in a newborn;
Chronic inflammation of the genitourinary system;
Complications in the mother's body after surgery.

If you have found at least one of the above signs, then you need to contact your doctor as soon as possible for help in order to conduct an analysis for gardnerella. First of all, this applies to girls who have planned a pregnancy. To diagnose the disease, the gynecologist will take a smear, based on the results of which treatment will be prescribed. In some cases, to determine the disease, girls are offered to donate blood for leukocytes. The results of the smear can give information about infection, or not infection of the genitourinary system.

Treatment regimen for gardnerellosis in women

The essence of the treatment of this disease is the destruction of gardnerella bacteria and the subsequent restoration of the normal microflora of the vagina. For treatment, the doctor prescribes antibiotics and other medications. Good results in the fight against the disease show such drugs as:

Ornidazole;
Ampicillin;
Clindamycin;
Metronidazole.

There are alternative drugs that fight gardnerella (including suppositories for gardnerellosis, antibiotic treatment), however, before making a choice in favor of a particular medication, it is better to consult your gynecologist. The regimen for taking the drugs is indicated in the annotations to them. In addition to the instructions themselves, the doctor will write a scheme that you need to follow for you.

Self-medication is strictly prohibited, as not all drugs may be suitable.

The compatibility of your body and the drug will be determined by the doctor through the tests you have previously passed.

After the harmful bacteria are destroyed, it is necessary to restore the normal microflora of the vagina in order to prevent the penetration of various infections and the development of the inflammatory process. Preparations aimed at restoring microflora contain beneficial bacteria that, when they enter the female body, kill weakened gardnerella bacteria, thereby bringing the microflora back to normal. Treatment of pregnant women from gardnerella is carried out under the full supervision of a leading obstetrician-gynecologist, since many drugs are contraindicated for pregnant women.

Particular attention should be paid to your diet during the treatment period. No wonder they say: "We are what we eat." With gardnerella in women, it is recommended to refrain from eating foods that promote the growth of bacteria, normalize their diet and add more fermented milk products.

During the course of treatment, it is better to refrain from unprotected sexual intercourse, as there is a high risk of infecting a partner with your illness. As a result, this ailment can return back to you.

Folk remedies for the treatment of gardnerellosis

Since the disease is quite common, it could not be ignored. Consider the treatment of gardnerella folk remedies. Treatment is aimed at removing the signs discussed above, as well as restoring the natural microflora of the vagina. Home treatment involves the use of natural herbs that are freely available in pharmacies in your city. Below are some folk remedies:

For douching, prepare a decoction of chamomile, sage and St. John's wort.
For oral administration, you can use a decoction of pine buds;
Topical application of tea tree will also help relieve acute symptoms of the disease.

Disease prevention

Observe personal hygiene, especially during menstruation;
Give preference to underwear made of natural fabrics and not restricting movement;
Choose methods of contraception only after consultation with a gynecologist;
Healthy eating, healthy lifestyle, stop snacking, less stress;
At least once every half a year, it is necessary to see a gynecologist to exclude the development of both bacterial and other diseases (this is especially true for those girls who do not have a permanent sexual partner).

So let's sum up all of the above. Gardnerella in women, although it belongs to non-serious gynecological diseases, is diagnosed in most women who are able to give birth, however, it is not worth postponing its treatment indefinitely, because. this can trigger the development of other inflammatory processes in the body. Timely detection of the disease can prevent the development of complications and subsequent expensive treatment. A preventive examination by a gynecologist is one of the most effective ways to prevent and maintain your health at the proper level.

Women's health is the most burning topic among beautiful ladies. Any pathological changes (pain, discharge, smell) often cause a woman to panic, make her run to the pharmacy and buy the advertised products.

However, not a single commercial, not a single friend who “knows exactly how to treat, because she had exactly the same thing,” will diagnose and prescribe the right treatment. Although some diseases - thrush, gardnerellosis - are not so dangerous (do not cause), their treatment is necessary to restore comfortable sensations and prevent undesirable consequences.

Gardnerellosis: what is it?

Almost everyone has heard about the microflora of the vagina: "useful" lactic acid bacteria live here, keeping conditionally pathogenic microorganisms (including gardnerella) in a weakened state.

It is the weakening of local immunity that provokes mass reproduction, primarily of fungi, gardnerella and other anaerobes. As a result of an imbalance in the vaginal microflora, a woman develops unpleasant symptoms.

The anaerobic bacterium Gardnerella vaginalis is found in small amounts in the vagina of even a healthy woman. Only a large amount of it and the acquisition of aggressive properties leads to a disease - let's take a closer look at what it is.

Gardnerellosis is one of the varieties of vaginal dysbacteriosis. Statistics: every fifth woman suffers from gardnerellosis (bacterial vaginosis).

Gardnerellosis: causes

Since gardnerellosis is a bacterial infection, it can be contracted through sexual intercourse. However, this disease should not be attributed purely to sexually transmitted infections.

Although the most common route of infection is still sexual, other provoking factors should not be ruled out. The occurrence of gardnerellosis in women occurs for the following reasons:

decrease in general immunity (chronic infections, stress);
massive antibiotic therapy, which provokes the death of lactobacilli in the intestine and vagina;
hormonal disruptions: pregnancy,;
urinary tract infections;
taking hormonal contraceptives and drugs with 9-nonoxynol (Patentex Oval), antidepressants, corticosteroids;
and other endocrine pathologies;
insufficient intimate hygiene;
frequent douching with antiseptics Chlorhexidine, Miramistin.

Bacterial vaginosis is more common among women who frequently change sexual partners and do not use condoms. In this case, there is a serious risk of simultaneous infection with gardnerella, gonococcus, ureoplasma and other infectious agents.

The incubation period of gardnerellosis in women is from 4 to 10 days. The first thing the patient pays attention to:

The smell of "rotten fish" from the vagina, causing serious discomfort and forcing you to repeat washing up to 5-6 times a day. However, the alkaline environment of soap only exacerbates the situation: the smell becomes more and more pungent, the periods of “cleanliness” (lack of an unpleasant smell) are shorter and shorter. The specific smell is caused by the breakdown of amines, a waste product of gardnerella.
Slight discharge from the vagina whitish-gray or.

The onset of bacterial vaginosis is similar to the development of other infections. Therefore, when the first pathological changes appear, you should consult a gynecologist.

Symptoms of gardnerellosis in women

The development of the disease leads to the appearance of other symptoms:

burning and itching in the perineum;
soreness, spilled over the lower abdomen (indicates the development of an inflammatory process in the vagina);
pain/discomfort during intercourse;
runoff along the walls of the vagina into the perineum;
signs of cystitis.

It is noticed: the symptoms of the disease are aggravated immediately after sexual intercourse. Sperm, having an alkaline reaction, is an excellent breeding ground for bacteria.

Diagnosis of the disease on the clinical picture is quite difficult. Often, the disease develops simultaneously with vaginal candidiasis (thrush), often accompanied by infection, gonococcus.

Diagnostics

Before prescribing treatment for gardnerellosis in a woman, the doctor takes into account the symptoms and complaints, during a gynecological examination, a vaginal secretion is taken for examination:

a smear (in most cases it is sufficient, microscopic examination reveals gardnerella and counts its amount);
assessment of the pH of the vagina (in case of a disease, an alkaline environment is fixed, the pH increases);
isonitrile test (detects a large number of bacteria).

Conducting studies of PIF (direct immunofluorescence) and PCR (DNA diagnostics) is not advisable. When making a diagnosis, it is not the detection of gardnerella that is important, but its quantity.

The main and mandatory method of treatment of bacterial vaginosis is antibiotic therapy.

Treatment regimen for gardnerellosis in women:

oral preparations - Metronidazole (Trichopolum, Klion) 250 mg twice a day (incompatible with alcohol!) Or Clindamycin 150 mg twice a day, course - 1 week;
local treatment - Metronidazole in gel (tampons in the morning / evening) or suppositories, Clindamycin cream once a day, the duration of application is 7 days.

In women, treatment with drugs of the penicillin group (Ampicillin) is possible. Gardnerella is resistant to tetracyclines (Doxycycline, Tetracycline), cephalosporins (Claforan, Ceftriaxone), sulfonamides (Septrin, Biseptol), aminoglycosides (Neomycin, Kanamycin).

When diagnosing a disease, her sexual partner is also treated at the same time. Often, bacterial vaginosis, combined with candidiasis, requires simultaneous antifungal therapy.

In this case, suppositories for gardnerellosis are prescribed, which have a combined antifungal / antibacterial composition (Clomezol, Gynotran), vaginal tablets (Terzhinan, Mikozhinaks) are also effective.

Treatment of gardnerellosis in women at home on a course of antibiotics and a "clean" re-analysis does not end. To exclude the subsequent reproduction of bacteria, it is necessary to restore the vaginal microflora and thereby strengthen the local immune defense.

For this, medications such as Vagilak (vaginal capsules) and Epigen-intim (gel) are used. The average duration of application is 2 weeks.

The unpleasant consequences of gardnerellosis mostly concern pregnant women. Complications of this infection include:

pyelonephritis, chronic cystitis;
endometritis (including postpartum), inflammation of the appendages;
bleeding during pregnancy and premature birth;
infection of the fetus during childbirth (pneumonia), low weight of the newborn.

Prevention

Proper hygiene: timely change of pads and tampons during menstruation, washing twice a day with neutral products, avoiding intimate deodorants.
Clothing hygiene: Avoid tight pants and synthetic underwear.
Sexual hygiene: contraception (condoms), long-term relationships.
Health hygiene: strengthening immunity, treatment of chronic infections and hormonal disorders.
Preventive check-ups twice a year.
Lifestyle hygiene: good nutrition, stress resistance.