What are the main differences between bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. How can you distinguish between BV and yeast infection symptoms. What treatments are available for BV versus yeast infections. How common are these vaginal conditions and what factors increase risk.

Understanding Bacterial Vaginosis and Yeast Infections: An Overview

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections are two of the most common vaginal conditions affecting women. While they share some similarities in terms of discomfort and symptoms, these infections have distinct causes and require different treatments. Understanding the key differences is crucial for proper diagnosis and effective management.

BV results from an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina, disrupting the normal balance of microorganisms. In contrast, yeast infections occur when there is an overgrowth of Candida fungi. Both conditions can cause significant discomfort and may lead to more serious health issues if left untreated.

Prevalence and Risk Factors: Who is Most Susceptible?

The prevalence of these vaginal infections is remarkably high. Up to 75% of women will experience at least one yeast infection in their lifetime, while one in three women will develop BV annually. These statistics underscore the importance of awareness and education about these conditions.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing BV or a yeast infection:

• Sexual activity
• Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause)
• Use of antibiotics
• Douching or using harsh vaginal products
• Weakened immune system
• Diabetes (for yeast infections)

Understanding these risk factors can help women take preventive measures and seek timely medical attention when necessary.

Distinguishing Symptoms: BV vs Yeast Infections

While BV and yeast infections can cause similar discomfort, their symptoms often differ in key ways. Recognizing these differences is crucial for accurate self-assessment and proper treatment.

Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms

BV typically presents with the following symptoms:

• Thin, white or grey vaginal discharge
• Strong fishy odor, especially after sexual intercourse
• Possible pain or burning during urination or sex

It’s important to note that up to 84% of BV cases may be asymptomatic, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and potential complications.

Yeast Infection Symptoms

Yeast infections often manifest with these signs:

• Thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge
• Intense itching and irritation
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Burning sensation during urination or intercourse

Unlike BV, yeast infections rarely produce a strong odor.

Diagnostic Challenges: The Importance of Professional Assessment

Despite the distinct symptoms, accurate self-diagnosis of BV and yeast infections remains challenging. Studies have shown that self-diagnoses are often incorrect, with one study revealing that only 56% of BV self-diagnoses and 69% of yeast infection self-diagnoses were accurate.

Why is professional diagnosis crucial? Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatment, potentially exacerbating the condition or causing unnecessary discomfort. Healthcare providers can perform specific tests to accurately identify the underlying cause of vaginal symptoms, ensuring the most effective treatment approach.

Treatment Options: Targeting the Root Cause

The treatment for BV and yeast infections differs based on their distinct causes. Proper diagnosis is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Treating Bacterial Vaginosis

BV is typically treated with prescription antibiotics. Common options include:

• Metronidazole (oral or topical)
• Clindamycin (cream or suppositories)
• Tinidazole (oral)

The course of treatment usually lasts 5-7 days, depending on the specific antibiotic and dosage form prescribed.

Treating Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are treated with antifungal medications, often from the “-azole” family. These can include:

• Fluconazole (oral)
• Miconazole (topical)
• Clotrimazole (topical)

Many antifungal treatments are available over-the-counter, but persistent or recurrent infections may require prescription-strength medications.

Potential Complications: Why Prompt Treatment Matters

While both BV and yeast infections are often viewed as mere inconveniences, they can lead to more serious health issues if left untreated. Understanding these potential complications emphasizes the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment.

Complications of Untreated BV

Bacterial vaginosis, especially when asymptomatic and undiagnosed, can increase the risk of several health problems:

• Increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Fertility issues
• Pregnancy complications, such as preterm birth and miscarriage
• Increased risk of certain gynecological cancers

Complications of Untreated Yeast Infections

While generally less severe than BV complications, untreated yeast infections can still cause significant issues:

• Chronic and recurring infections
• Skin damage from excessive scratching
• Increased risk of HIV transmission
• Potential spread of infection to other body parts

These potential complications underscore the importance of seeking medical attention for persistent or recurrent vaginal symptoms.

Prevention Strategies: Maintaining Vaginal Health

Given the high recurrence rates of both BV and yeast infections, prevention plays a crucial role in maintaining vaginal health. While it’s not always possible to prevent these infections entirely, certain lifestyle changes and habits can significantly reduce the risk.

General Prevention Tips

• Maintain good hygiene, but avoid douching or using scented vaginal products
• Wear breathable, cotton underwear
• Avoid tight-fitting pants or synthetic materials that trap moisture
• Practice safe sex and limit the number of sexual partners
• Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom
• Change out of wet swimsuits or workout clothes promptly

BV-Specific Prevention

To reduce the risk of BV:

• Avoid douching, as it disrupts the natural vaginal flora
• Use condoms during sexual activity
• Quit smoking, as it’s associated with an increased risk of BV
• Consider probiotics to support healthy vaginal bacteria

Yeast Infection Prevention

To minimize the risk of yeast infections:

• Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use
• Manage blood sugar levels if you have diabetes
• Limit sugar and refined carbohydrate intake
• Consider probiotics, especially when taking antibiotics

By implementing these prevention strategies, women can significantly reduce their risk of developing BV or yeast infections and maintain optimal vaginal health.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Recognizing Red Flags

While many cases of BV and yeast infections can be managed with over-the-counter treatments or lifestyle changes, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. Recognizing these red flags can prevent potential complications and ensure proper treatment.

Signs You Should See a Healthcare Provider

• Symptoms persist or worsen after self-treatment
• Recurrent infections (more than 3-4 times a year)
• Unusual or severe symptoms (e.g., fever, severe pain)
• Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
• History of STIs or recent unprotected sexual activity
• Symptoms accompanied by unusual bleeding or pelvic pain

Healthcare providers can perform necessary tests to accurately diagnose the condition and prescribe appropriate treatment. They can also assess for any underlying health issues that may be contributing to recurrent infections.

The Role of Regular Check-ups

Regular gynecological check-ups play a crucial role in maintaining vaginal health. These visits allow for:

• Early detection of asymptomatic BV or other vaginal conditions
• Discussion of any changes in vaginal health or concerns
• Screening for STIs and other reproductive health issues
• Personalized advice on maintaining optimal vaginal health

By prioritizing regular check-ups and promptly addressing any concerns, women can take proactive steps in managing their vaginal health and preventing potential complications.

The Impact of Vaginal Health on Overall Well-being

Vaginal health is an integral part of a woman’s overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked or discussed with hesitation. Understanding the importance of vaginal health and its connection to general health can empower women to take charge of their bodies and seek appropriate care when needed.

Physical Health Connections

The state of vaginal health can impact various aspects of physical well-being:

• Reproductive health and fertility
• Sexual function and satisfaction
• Urinary tract health
• Immune system function

Maintaining optimal vaginal health through proper hygiene, regular check-ups, and prompt treatment of infections can contribute to better overall physical health.

Mental and Emotional Well-being

Vaginal health issues can also significantly affect mental and emotional well-being:

• Anxiety or stress related to recurrent infections
• Impact on self-esteem and body image
• Potential strain on intimate relationships
• Discomfort or embarrassment in social situations

Addressing vaginal health concerns promptly and openly can alleviate these psychological burdens and contribute to improved mental health.

Breaking the Stigma

Open discussions about vaginal health are crucial for:

• Increasing awareness and education
• Encouraging timely medical care
• Reducing shame and embarrassment
• Promoting overall women’s health

By fostering open conversations about vaginal health, including common conditions like BV and yeast infections, we can create a more supportive environment for women to seek information and care.

Future Directions in Vaginal Health Research and Treatment

As our understanding of the vaginal microbiome and women’s health continues to evolve, new research directions and treatment options are emerging. These advancements hold promise for improved diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions like BV and yeast infections.

Emerging Research Areas

• Microbiome-based therapies for restoring vaginal health
• Development of more accurate and rapid diagnostic tools
• Investigation of the role of diet and lifestyle in vaginal health
• Exploration of the connection between vaginal health and systemic diseases

Potential Future Treatments

Ongoing research may lead to innovative treatment options such as:

• Personalized probiotics tailored to individual microbiome profiles
• Novel antimicrobial compounds with reduced risk of resistance
• Immunomodulatory therapies to enhance natural defense mechanisms
• Advanced delivery systems for more effective topical treatments

These developments may offer more effective, personalized approaches to managing and preventing vaginal infections in the future.

The Importance of Continued Research and Education

Ongoing research and education efforts are crucial for:

• Improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy
• Developing better prevention strategies
• Enhancing public awareness and understanding of vaginal health
• Informing policy decisions and healthcare practices

By supporting and engaging with these efforts, we can contribute to better vaginal health outcomes for women worldwide.

Bacterial Vaginosis vs. Yeast Infections: What’s the Difference?

Highlights from this article 

• BV and yeast infections are vaginal infections that cause symptoms such as abnormal discharge, unpleasant smell, irritation, or pain. 
• BV is caused by the overgrowth of bacteria while yeast infections are caused by the overgrowth of fungus.
• BV discharge is thin, grey, or white and has a distinctive fishy odor, while yeast infection discharge is white with a thick consistency (similar to cottage cheese) and is usually odorless or smells like yeast.
• BV is treated with prescription antibiotics, while yeast infections are treated with an antifungal medication known as “-azoles”.
• Recurrence is common, so prevention is key! 

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections are two very common vaginal conditions. Up to 75% of women will have a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lifetime and one in three people with vaginas will get BV each year.

As you likely know from having one or the other (or both), BV and yeast infections can cause a host of symptoms including pain, itching, and abnormal discharge or smell.  

Not only are they both irritating, frustrating issues, but it can be tricky to tell them apart. Especially given that most sex-ed is subpar, many people with vaginas never learned the difference in the first place! 

Being misdiagnosed actually happens more often than being correctly diagnosed. In a study of 220 symptomatic patients, 61% of BV and 77% of yeast infection diagnoses were incorrect.  We aren’t much better at diagnosing ourselves, either. One study showed self-diagnoses of BV were correct only 56% of the time, while 69% of those who thought they had a yeast infection actually had something else. Another article showed that only about a third of individuals were correct in diagnosing themselves with a yeast infection.

However, the causes, symptoms, and treatments for BV and yeast infections have some telltale differences. Keep reading to learn more about the key differences between BV and yeast infections, and tips to prevent both.

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Causes of BV and yeast infections

BV and yeast infections are both caused by an overgrowth of microbes in your vaginal microbiome, leading to vaginitis — but the main difference between BV and yeast infections is what kind of microbe is responsible for the infection.

BV is an umbrella term for an infection caused by disruptive bacteria, while a yeast infection is caused by various types of Candida, which are fungi. 

Possible triggers for BV

In a healthy vaginal microbiome, protective bacteria — namely, lactobacilli — stop disruptive bacteria from taking over. However, sometimes they fall short. When this happens, it can lead to BV. Some possible triggers for BV are:

• Sex 
• Hormonal fluctuations (e.g. birth control, pregnancy, and menopause)
• Your period
• Smoking

• Stress
• Douching/using vaginal products 

Possible triggers for yeast infections

When it comes to yeast, most people already have a small amount in their bodies (including the vagina) without it causing any issues. However, when levels of yeast increase beyond a healthy amount, it can lead to a yeast infection. Possible triggers for yeast infections include: 

• Antibiotics  
• Sex 
• Birth control method, specifically oral contraception and IUDs 
• Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or utilizing hormone replacement therapy
• A weakened immune system
• Diabetes

Do I have a yeast infection or BV? 

BV and yeast infections sometimes present very differently. For example, a strong fishy smell is exclusively a BV symptom, while white, clumpy discharge is the hallmark symptom of a yeast infection. 

However, both conditions can produce symptoms that are a bit ambiguous — BV may be asymptomatic and yeast infections may be more irritating than they are visually apparent. 

Here are the full lists of symptoms to help distinguish between the two: 

BV symptoms  

Common symptoms of BV include:

• White or grey vaginal discharge that is thin and watery
• A strong or fishy odor (that becomes stronger after sex).   
• In some cases, BV can also cause pain, discomfort, or burning during sex and when peeing. 

That said, BV can often occur without any symptoms at all. Up to 84% of those with BV are asymptomatic. While some may feel blessed to do without the unwanted discharge, this is concerning because BV can increase the risk of other health issues, such as:

• STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, herpes, HPV, and HIV 
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Fertility issues and failed IVF
• Pregnancy complications like miscarriage, preterm birth, neonatal problems, and preeclampsia 
• Gynecological cancers such as ovarian, cervical, or endometrial cancer
• Cervicitis
• Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)

Yeast infection symptoms 

Common symptoms of a yeast infection are:

• Lumpy, white, cottage cheese-like discharge 
• Itching or burning around the vulva and vagina
• Pain or discomfort during sex and when peeing 

If you’re not totally sure whether you have BV or a yeast infection, it’s best to check in with your OB-GYN or general healthcare provider. Your provider may perform a pelvic exam to obtain a sample by swabbing the vaginal wall and discharge to help make the diagnosis. 

It is important to note that both of these infections also share symptoms with STIs like trichomoniasis and chlamydia. As STIs can lead to long-term consequences, it is best to check with a doctor ASAP if this could also be a possibility.

Treatment for BV and yeast infections

Since yeast infections and BV are caused by different microbes, they’re treated by different types of medication. 

BV is treated with prescription antibiotics (metronidazole, clindamycin, tinidazole, etc.) that can either be taken orally or vaginally. 

Yeast infections are treated with prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medications called azole antifungals — like clotrimazole, miconazole (Monistat), and terconazole — which also can be either oral or vaginal treatments. 

Both BV and yeast infections have an annoying habit of resisting treatment or coming back — just our luck. Researchers are still trying to find effective, long-term treatment options for recurrent vaginal infections so prevention is key. 

Recurrent symptoms? Meet Evvy’s at-home vaginal microbiome test, approved by leading OB-GYNs.

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How to prevent BV and yeast infections from coming back

One way to help prevent a BV recurrence is to take a probiotic with helpful strains of vaginal bacteria regularly. Vaginal probiotics have also shown some promise when it comes to yeast infections as well. 

But not all probiotics are created equal — many don’t even contain strains of bacteria naturally found in the vagina! While the concept is promising (replenishing the protective bacteria in your microbiome) the type of probiotic used must be specifically designed for vaginal health and scientifically proven to work.

Boric acid is another common vaginal treatment. Despite how widely used it is, research on boric acid is still emerging. It is recommended by the CDC for yeast infections caused by Candida glabrata, but there is not strong research showing its effectiveness against BV. It *may* help to break down biofilm formed by BV-causing bacteria, as well as increase acidity and make the vagina inhospitable to pathogens. However, more research is needed! 

Above all, avoiding things that can disrupt your vaginal microbiome or irritate your vagina is the best way to keep your vagina healthy. To reduce your chances of getting BV or yeast infections, try to maintain healthy habits such as: 

• Practicing safe sex (use condoms and dental dams, wash your toys, etc.)
• Avoiding douching and using feminine hygiene washes
• Wipe front to back
• Change your period products within the proper time frame
• Stick to underwear that is loose-fitting, lightweight, breathable, and made from a natural fabric, and change it often
• Wash sex toys with every use

Get care for BV and yeast infections with Evvy

If you notice that you’re experiencing recurrent episodes of bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, or vaginal symptoms, it might be helpful to test with Evvy over time to see if any specific behaviors are triggering.  

We’ve created the first-ever platform for vaginal healthcare that combines state-of-the-art vaginal microbiome testing, prescription treatment, and 1:1 coaching to get you the answers, relief, and support that you deserve. Built with leading OB-GYNs and researchers, Evvy’s care platform can connect you to providers trained to review your vaginal microbiome results and select the best care for bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and other vaginal symptoms. They’ll also recommend research-backed supplements to build back your microbiome to a protective state!

Yeast Infection vs. Bacterial Vaginosis: What is the Difference?

Women’s Health

Medically reviewed by Dr. Clara Ong

While both yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis are types of vaginitis (i. e. vaginal inflammation), they differ in causes, symptoms, and treatments.

A vagina comprises both “good” and “bad” bacteria and bacterial vaginosis is the result of the “bad” bacteria becoming overgrown and disrupting this balance. It can be caused by several types of bacteria but is usually due to the Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria.

On the other hand, yeast infections are fungal – typically caused by the Candida fungus in the vagina.

Both of these types of vaginitis are extremely common. It is advised that you go to a gynaecologist for an accurate diagnosis.

What is a Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection is a fungal infection. Also known as vaginal candidiasis, vaginal yeast infections are extremely common – about 3 out of 4 women experience them at some point in their lives, and many experience at least twice.

What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a type of vaginal inflammation that occurs when the vagina’s natural bacterial balance is disrupted, leading to the overgrowth of “bad” bacteria called anaerobes.  Having BV can increase your chances of getting other STDs. You cannot get BV from toilet seats, bedding, or swimming pools.

Signs and Symptoms

Both BV and yeast infections can cause unusual vaginal discharge. However, the discharge from a yeast infection usually has a thick, white consistency. On the other hand, the discharge from BV is thin, yellow, or grey and has a strong, unpleasant odour. At least half of the women who develop BV do not experience noticeable symptoms.

Below is a summary of similarities and differences in the signs & symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) and a yeast infection:

Causes

Bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections are caused by different factors.

Bacterial Vaginosis

The following are some of the common causes for bacterial vaginosis:

• Douching or rinsing your vagina with a cleansing agent typically disrupts the normal vaginal environment. It may strip away “good” bacteria or introduce “bad” bacteria.
• Intercourse with a new partner may introduce new bacteria to the area or change your vaginal pH, especially intercourse without a condom.

Yeast Infections

The following are some of the common causes for yeast infections:

• Taking antibiotics may lead to a decrease in the “good” bacteria causing the yeast to grow
• Major hormonal changes including pregnancy

Treatments

The treatments for BV and yeast infections differ. Some yeast infections can be treated with over the counter medications, but all cases of BV require prescription medication.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Metronidazole (Flagyl) is a commonly prescribed oral medications used to treat BV.  

Although your symptoms are likely to clear up within 2 or 3 days, be sure to finish the full 5 or 7 day course of antibiotics. It is important to finish the full course of antibiotics as that is the best way to clear the infection and reduce the chances of it recurring.

During this time, avoid having sexual intercourse or inserting anything into the vagina that could introduce bacteria such as tampons, menstrual cups or sex toys.

Unless your symptoms continue after your course is completed, you are unlikely to require a follow-up appointment.

Yeast Infections

Yeast infections can be treated with anti-fungal vaginal pessaries, creams or tablets.

It is important to finish the full course to clear the infection and reduce the chances of recurrence. Over the counter and prescription medications can usually clear up a yeast infection within a week. If your symptoms persist, you should consult a gynaecologist for medical treatment.

Conclusion

While the symptoms of yeast infections and BV are often similar, the causes and treatments for these conditions are different.

If left untreated, both yeast infections and BV can lead to further complications. If your symptoms persist, it is advisable for you to visit your gynaecologist for a consultation.

Minimizing irritation to your vulva and protecting the natural microbial environment inside your vagina can help prevent reinfection. Some tips for prevention include taking probiotics, avoiding douching or using scented soaps or fragrances on your vulva, immediately changing out of wet clothes and avoid spending extended amounts of time in hot baths.

About the Doctor

Dr. Clara Ong

About the Doctor

Dr. Clara Ong

“As a mother of three, Dr. Ong is very much willing to hold the hands of mothers in their journey to delivery. She is an accredited colposcopist with the Society for Colposcopy & Cervical Pathology of Singapore. Other areas of interest includes menopausal care, adolescent gynaecology and contraception. “

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Thrush and bacterial vaginosis: how to distinguish and treat?

Where do thrush and bacterial vaginosis come from?

Candida albicans colonies. Photo: PHIL CDC

Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans. Its development can be facilitated by taking antibiotics, the use of irritating hygiene products, impaired immunity, diabetes mellitus, taking certain hormonal drugs, and pregnancy. Vaginosis can appear when the balance of bacteria that make up the normal microflora of the vagina is disturbed: the number of the most beneficial bacteria (lactobacilli) decreases, while others (for example, gardnerella) increase. It can be provoked by antiseptics and fragrances in baths and hygiene products, detergent residues on linen, and douching.

Colonies of bacteria Gardnerella vaginalis. Photo: PHIL CDC

How do thrush and bacterial vaginosis present?

Both conditions may be asymptomatic, women may also ignore their manifestations for a while if they are not strong enough.

Similar symptoms of bacterial vaginosis and thrush include :

• Itching, redness, irritation of the vaginal mucosa.
• Possible pain and burning during intercourse and urination.

These symptoms are usually more pronounced with thrush.

Distinctive symptoms of the two diseases:

• In both conditions, the vaginal discharge increases, but they usually have a different character. With thrush, they are usually thick, curdled consistency, and with vaginosis – liquid, white or gray.
• Smell. Bacterial vaginosis discharge has a fishy smell. Discharge from thrush may be odorless or smell a little like yeast. These are not harmless diseases. So, with vaginosis, the risk of sexually transmitted diseases, inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs and miscarriage increases.

Photo: doucefleur / freepik.com

Visiting a doctor

If you suspect thrush or bacterial vaginosis, you need to visit a specialist: self-diagnosis and self-treatment can lead to errors and bad health consequences. A gynecologist is responsible for diagnosing and treating these conditions. Choosing a doctor is often difficult: you always want a specialist to be competent and responsible, if possible – the best. Such a doctor can be found in the network of medical clinics “Health”. In addition to high-class doctors in the clinic, you can count on good service and the use of the latest technologies. At the appointment, the doctor asks about complaints and medical history, conducts an examination and prescribes additional diagnostic tests. The doctor can often make a diagnosis of thrush without additional tests. However, a test may also be needed, for which smears are taken from the vagina, and sometimes from the cervix. This is not a painful procedure that takes a few seconds. Next, the smear is examined under a microscope or inoculated on a special nutrient medium to reveal the growth of fungi. To diagnose bacterial vaginosis, swabs are also taken from the vagina or from the cervix. Additionally, a study of the pH of the secretions can be carried out.

Photo: fotosparrow / freepik. com

Treatment of thrush and bacterial vaginosis

Treatment of thrush is carried out with antifungal agents. They can be administered topically (suppositories, creams) or inside (tablets), the duration of the course depends on the severity of the disease. Antimicrobials for bacterial vaginosis can also be in tablet or cream form. Treatment must be completed according to the scheme proposed by the doctor. Unauthorized interruption of therapy increases the risk of relapse.

Photo: tatyana-blinova / freepik.com

Prevention

Careful attitude to the vaginal microflora helps to prevent these diseases. For example, it is recommended to use mild, unscented soaps and unscented tampons and pads, and to avoid vaginal douching (vaginal douching). The likelihood of getting thrush is also reduced if you do not use antibiotics unnecessarily, do not wear very tight underwear and tights, and do not walk in a wet swimsuit. Network of medical clinics “Health”

References

1. Shah A. , Patel V., Parmar B. Discovery of Some Antiviral Natural products to fight against Novel Corona Virus (SARS-CoV-2) using Insilico approach. // Comb Chem High Throughput Screen – 2020 – Vol – NNULL – p.; PMID:32881661
2. MARCELLE O. ALMEIDA, MARCUS VINICIUS C. VIANA, JANAÍNA C. CERQUEIRA. Novel insights in bacterial vaginosis etiology through genomic approaches [Electronic resource] // An Acad Bras Cienc, 2021.
3. Deirdre Maclean. Thrush [Electronic resource] // CATIE FactSHEET, 2001.
4. Phillip Hay. Bacterial vaginosis [Electronic resource] // F1000Research, 2017.
5. Don Stalons. Bacterial Vaginosis: Pathogenesis, Presentation, and Diagnosis [Electronic resource]// Reliability of diagnosing bacterial vaginosis is improved by a standardized method of gram stain interpretation. J Clin Microbiol, 1991

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One solution to 5 women’s problems

There are so many problems and worries in the life of a modern woman that there is not much time left for herself. And I really don’t want to spend it on such troubles as intimate infections.

Problem #1 – candidiasis (thrush)

7 out of 10 women know firsthand about thrush (candidiasis). Itching, burning, copious discharge do not allow a normal life and cause a desire to get rid of this scourge quickly and forever. Unfortunately, this doesn’t work for everyone. Why is it so difficult to cope with this disease? Perhaps the fact is that in the diagnosis and treatment of candidiasis, some are guided not by facts, but by delusions.

Candida fungi can be found in healthy individuals, identifying them without quantification is of no importance. Candida albicans is the most common cause of candidiasis, but far from the only one. In addition to it, candidiasis is caused by Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, Candida krrusei and Candida parapsilosis. Therefore, with candidiasis, there may be a negative test result for Candida albicans. Determining the types of Candida will allow the doctor to choose the necessary therapy that will help get rid of the disease.

Solution: PCR Florocenosis test for the 5 most important types of candida – to choose the right treatment for thrush

Women’s Problem #2 – Bacterial Vaginosis

Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis are known to many women. This is usually discharge with an unpleasant odor, reminiscent of rotten fish. However, bacterial vaginosis can also occur without symptoms. But! Without symptoms does not mean without consequences. Without treatment, this disease increases the risk of inflammatory diseases of the uterus and appendages, pregnancy complications, and premature birth. Bacterial vaginosis is one of the disorders of the female microflora. Various factors upset the balance of the intimate microflora: beneficial lactobacilli become smaller, their place is taken by opportunistic microorganisms. If these invaders are aerobic bacteria, aerobic vaginitis will develop, and if anaerobic bacteria, bacterial vaginosis will develop. It is important to determine the ratio of beneficial and opportunistic bacteria and to identify microorganisms whose presence requires special therapy.

Solution: Florocenosis test is an informative test for the diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis

Women’s Problem #3 – Aerobic Vaginitis

With aerobic vaginitis, you may experience itching, burning, discharge – the same symptoms that occur with candidiasis (thrush) or bacterial vaginosis. The drugs prescribed for these diseases alone will not help with aerobic vaginitis. Without the correct diagnosis and proper treatment, aerobic vaginitis turns into “persistent candidiasis” or “incurable bacterial vaginosis.” To cope with this misfortune, it is necessary to recognize the imbalance of the vaginal microflora, accompanied by the expansion of a certain group of aerobic bacteria with their predominance over the “useful” lactobacilli.

Solution: Florocenosis test correct diagnosis and effectiveness in the treatment of aerobic vaginitis

Women’s problem No. 4 – mycoplasmas and ureaplasmas

There are many species in the Mycoplasma family, but only Mycoplasma genitalium, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Ureaplasma parvum, and Mycoplasma hominis can cause urinary tract infections. When Mycoplasma genitalium is detected, treatment is mandatory, with the rest everything is not so clear. Often in women, myco- and ureaplasmas coexist calmly with the normal microflora of the vagina, which is why the fact of their presence does not give the doctor information about what role they now play in your health – a peaceful neighbor or an aggressor. Quantification is a more informative approach. An increased number of myco- and ureaplasmas is associated with a greater likelihood of their transition to the “dark side”. You can suspect problems if you have complaints and the doctor finds inflammation of the vagina or cervix. But first of all, it is necessary to exclude STIs, aerobic vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis (thrush). If the doctor did not reveal all these diseases in the patient, but determined a large number of myco- and ureaplasmas, the question of treatment should be considered.

to be sure that your doctor sees the whole picture and did not miss anything, we recommend taking the Florocenosis and NCMT test

Women’s Issue No.