Gardnerella vaginitis is a vaginal infection that is commonly referred to as bacterial vaginosis. It is a common gynecological condition in women, but men can be infected with the bacteria, as well. While some bacterial vaginosis infections clear without medication, it is important to seek treatment to avoid serious complications.
Cause
Gardnerella vaginitis bacteria are present in the bacterial flora of many women's vaginas. When the natural balance of the vagina becomes unbalanced, the Gardnerella vaginitis bacteria may overgrow and create an infection. It is often spread by sexual contact but also appears in women who are not sexually active. Use of antibiotics, contraceptive sponges, a diaphragm, an IUD or spermicide may all increase the risk of contracting the infection. Douching and tampon misuse are also felt to increase the odds of developing a Gardnnerella vaginitis infection.
Symptoms
Some women have a Gardnerella vaginitis infection without having any noticeable symptoms. A green or gray-white vaginal discharge may be present, according to the text, "Medical-Surgical Nursing." It may have a sticky, smooth or thin consistency. A fishy odor may be present; this is more likely to be noticeable after vaginal intercourse. Burning may be felt during urination. Vaginal intercourse may be painful.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually begins with a pelvic examination. At this time, a sample of vaginal fluid may be obtained. The fluid is mixed with a laboratory chemical to see if a characteristic odor is produced, signaling the presence of a Gardnerella vaginitis infection. The vaginal pH may also be checked; an elevated pH may be indicative of the infection. A sample of vaginal secretion may be allowed to grow for a few days in the lab to make a definitive diagnosis.
Treatment
The infection is often treated with the oral antibiotics tinidazole, clindamycin or metronidazole. They are typically taken for a week or less. Alternatively, some physicians prescribe a vaginal cream or gel, explains the California State University, Northridge. Vaginal intercourse should be avoided or engaged in only with condom use. The woman's sexual partner may need to be treated.
Complications
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention relates that a woman with bacterial vaginosis is at an increased risk of contracting human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS, if she is exposed to the virus. It also raises a woman's risk of contracting other sexually transmitted diseases. The infection can travel to the woman's uterus or fallopian tubes, increasing her chances of pelvic inflammatory disease or infertility. A pregnant woman who develops a Gardnerella vaginitis infection may have a baby who is born early or below a healthy weight.
References
- "Medical-Surgical Nursing"; Donna Ignatavicius, M.S., R.N. and Linda Workman, Ph.D., R.N.; 2002
- California State University, Northridge: Bacterial Vaginosis
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Bacterial Vaginosis
