Culture and Sensitivity - Vaginal Swab Tips

A yeast infection in the vagina is characterized by itchiness, irritation in the vulva and vaginal discharge. Inflammation occurs in the tissues of the vagina, leading to constant itching. Though this is not a sexually transmitted infection, the fungus may spread via oral sex where the mouth and genitals come in contact.

The symptoms of vaginal yeast infection are:

1. You may experience a painful sensation during sexual intercourse

2. An itching sensation in the vaginal opening

3. A sore and painful vagina

4. Rashes may develop in the vagina

5. You may have a thick and whitish discharge from your vagina

Apart from this, the symptoms may turn severe under certain circumstances. The risk factors are:

1. If you are a diabetic, then you are at a high risk of contracting this infection

2. Pregnancy

3. If you are taking medications or have infections such as HIV then it may cause your immune system to malfunction. This increases your risk of vaginal yeast infections.

4. Multiple episodes of yeast infections (about 4 or more).

Causes behind it

The vaginal yeast infection is caused by a fungus known as candida. This fungus naturally exists in the vagina along with a bacterium called lactobacillus . This bacteria produces a substance that controls the overgrowth of the yeast. Yeast infection occurs when the balance is disturbed due to various factors such as:

1. If you are pregnant

2. Taking antibiotics may modify the pH balance of your vagina, leading to yeast infection

3. Any therapy or medication that increases estrogen levels in the body

4. If you have diabetes or an impaired immune system

Treatment

Medications such as ointments, tablets and creams are administered to get rid of the yeast infection. It is recommended to not use latex condoms as birth control measures; as the oily nature of the lotions and ointment can weaken the latex thus, increasing the risks of unplanned pregnancies.

There are certain preventive measures which you may adapt to prevent these infections, them being:

1. Do not wear tight-fitting undergarments

2. The material of your clothes should preferably be cotton based

3. Do not use hot water for your bath

4. Don t stay in your wet clothes for long hours

In a healthy individual, there are millions of microorganisms in different parts of the body which are essential for normal functioning of that particular organ. Be it the mouth or the gut or the reproductive tract, there are normally organisms. These form part of the normal flora of that body part. It is when there is an imbalance between the good and bad bacteria, where the bad ones take over, then there is a problem. This results in an infection, which manifests with symptoms and requires treatment.

Vaginal yeast infection is one of the most common such conditions and almost 75% of the women would have had it at least once in their lifetime. It is most commonly caused by the yeast Candida albicans, which is normally present in the vagina. Though it can be sexually transmitted, it is not a usual STD.

Causes: The vagina also contains the bacteria Lactobacillus, which produces acid and is essential for maintaining an acidic environment. This acidic environment ensures there is no overgrowth of the yeast. For various reasons, this balance is lost and there is an overgrowth of yeast leading to vaginal yeast infections. Some of the common causes are listed below.

Antibiotic usage, which kills the Lactobacillus count and increases vaginal pH
Uncontrolled diabetes
Weakened immunity due to various reasons
Pregnancy
Increased levels of oestrogen due to use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
Symptoms: The symptoms would depend on the severity of the infection:

Vaginal itching, burning, and irritation
Vulvar swelling, irritation, and redness
Burning sensation with urination or intercourse
Vaginal rash
Vaginal soreness and pain
Vaginal discharge that can be thick or thin, white or clear, odor-free or foul-smelling
In cases of recurrent vaginal yeast infections, there could be more than 4 infections per year along with extensive burning and itching and swelling that could even lead to cracks and fissures.

Diagnosis: Though the symptoms can be helpful in diagnosis, sometimes a pelvic exam and swab of the vaginal discharge might be required to confirm the diagnosis. This is especially required in cases of repeated infections.

Vaginitis is the term which is used to refer to the inflammation of the vagina. In most of the cases, vaginitis occurs as a result of an infection of the vagina. The infection caused by vaginitis can result in discharge, pain and itching. Vaginitis can also be caused by non-infectious causes. Vaginitis is often caused because of an infection caused by yeast or bacteria. But it can also happen due to chemical or physical irritation. Some STDs cause vaginitis but not all the causes for vaginitis are related to STDs.

A reduction in the levels of estrogen after menopause can also cause vaginitis. The most common types of vaginitis are known as Bacterial vaginosis, Yeast infections and Trichomoniasis. Vaginitis is common in women who are in their reproductive years. It usually happens if there is a change in the balance of yeast or bacteria that are usually found in the vagina. If left untreated then it can cause complications. The risk of complications is greater in pregnant women. In severe cases it can also cause premature delivery, postpartum infections, increased vulnerability to HIV infection and even infertility.

Symptoms
There are many symptoms of vaginitis.

Some of the most common symptoms of vaginitis is irritation or itching of the genital area.
The itching can also lead to skin infections. The labia majora, labia minora and the perineal area can become inflamed.
There is vaginal discharge also.
Another common symptom is foul odor from the vagina. During sexual intercourse, there can also be pain or irritation in the vagina.
Another very painful symptom of vaginitis is painful urination as the woman may suffer pain while passing out urine.
There can also be light vaginal bleeding or even spotting.
If the cause of vaginitis is yeast infection then there will be a thick, white discharge from the vagina.
This discharge can be watery and in most cases have no smell.
Yeast infections will usually cause itchiness and make the vagina and vulva red.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of vaginitis is based on the symptoms of the woman.

Diagnosis is made after a microscopy and culture of the discharge after a careful physical examination takes place.
Oral antibiotics, injections and antibiotics are used to treat vaginitis.
Creams are also prescribed which are put inside the vagina.
Estrogen creams are also prescribed for the treatment of this infection by medical practitioners.
If the infection is caused by an allergy then the product causing the allergy has to be figured and its use has to be stopped immediately.

Today most of the women are suffering from chronic diseases. In the extremely busy life of today, women try to solve their issues by taking medicines themselves which provides temporary relief but does not cure it.

Homeopathy is a branch of medicine which successfully treats and cures the complicated issues that women face with their health and body. Some of the major diseases of women that can be treated by homeopathic medicines are:

Vaginal Yeast Infection-

The condition is also known as candidiasis. It is caused due to the overgrowth of the fungus candida which is present in the vagina.

Symptoms:

Irritation and itching in the vagina

Pain, burning sensation and soreness

Swelling and redness of the vulva

Vaginal discharge of white color

Homeopathic Medicines for Vaginal Yeast Infection-

Some of the common medicines for treating it are Graphites, Helonias, Lycopodium, Natrum Muriaticum, Pulsatilla, Sepia, Thuja, Staphysagria, Candida albicans.

Hot Flashes-

It is the most common symptom of menopause. They are caused by the hormone fluctuations in women during menopause.

Symptoms:

A sudden warm feeling on face, neck and chest areas

Perspiration

Flushing

Cold chills

Irregular heartbeat or rapid heartbeat

Homeopathic Medicines for Hot Flashes-

Some of the common medicines are Amylium Nitrosum, Belladonna, Glononium, Folliculinum, Lachesis, Sepia and Sanguinaria Canadensis.

PMS or Premenstrual Syndrome-

It is a group of emotional and physical symptoms which is related to the menstrual cycle of a woman.

Symptoms:

Bloated abdomen

Acne

Back pain

Constipation

Changes in appetites which include craving for certain foods

Fast heartbeat

Crying spells

Depression

Feeling irritated, tired, tensed and anxious

Hot flashes

Headaches

Mood swings

Joint pain

Troubled sleep

Weight gain

Swollen feet or hands

Swollen and tender breasts

Disinterest in sex

Wanting to be alone

Homeopathic Medicines For Treating PMS--

Some of the common homeopathic medicines for treating the condition are Lachesis, Folliculinum, Pulsatilla, Lac Caninum, Natrum Muraticum and Sepia.

All the homeopathic medicines that are mentioned above should always be taken after proper consultation with the homeopathic doctors.

Like many systems within the human body, the reproductive system is also a self maintaining one and performs many complex functions on its own. The female reproductive system is one such system and within it, the vagina is an especially good example. It is a self contained system wherein, the balance of the vaginal bacteria is maintained for proper health.

Douching:

Douching is a process that involves the cleaning out or washing of an internal cavity of a body, such as the anus or the vagina with the help of water and special nozzles. Vaginal douching has become prevalent among women, mostly due to aggressive marketing campaigns which claim that it helps to keep the vagina clean. It is estimated that in developed nations, one in four women perform douching regularly.

Is it any good?

Vaginal douching has been reviled by most medical professionals around the world. The consensus is that not only does vaginal douching have no benefits; it may also be harmful for your vagina in general. The vagina is an ecosystem wherein multiple types of organisms thrive, including bacteria and fungi. These organisms keep each other in check and maintain the health of the organ. These organisms help maintain the pH Levels (the alkaline to acidic radio) within the vagina. Douching may actually disrupt the balance and cause harm by destroying one type of micro-organisms and letting the other proliferate, thus causing infections and other problems.

Problems caused by vaginal douching

Douches, especially the ones found in the market, contain elements such as iodine, baking soda, vinegar and other chemicals that can make the delicate vaginal balance go haywire. Some of the disorders that can be caused by it are mentioned as follows:

Yeast infections: This is due to the proliferation of the fungi known as candida within the vagina. This fungus is present within the vagina, but douching can reduce the bacteria that counteract it, resulting in rapid growth. This is one of the most common infections of the vagina.
Bacterial vaginosis: Similar to how yeast infections occur, in this case, harmful bacteria proliferate within the vagina. This is also a common vaginal infection and douching has been deemed as one of the leading causes for it.
Pelvic inflammatory diseases: Douching pushes the bacteria of the vaginal canal into the cervix and the uterus, resulting in infections such as PID or pelvic inflammatory diseases (an infection in the reproductive organ in females).
Pregnancy related problems: A myth has been floating around that if a woman performs douching after sexual intercourse, it will wash away the sperm and hence prevent her from getting pregnant. In fact, the reverse is true. Douching can often push the sperm up into the uterus causing pregnancy. Not only that, pregnancies caused in such a manner have higher chances of bearing complications such as ectopic pregnancies (a condition wherein the fertilized egg gets implanted outside one s uterus), birth defects, etc.
Irritation and vaginal dryness: Douching at the very least will result in the vagina turning dry as the natural mechanisms are disrupted. This results in irritation and itching.

Vaginal itching is a condition which occurs when the vagina comes in contact with irritants or because of a vaginal infection. Menopause may also lead to conditions that trigger itching in the vagina. In some cases, sexually transmitted diseases and skin allergies also lead to vaginal itching. The conditions in itself is not a major cause of concern, however, one should consult a doctor to treat the underlying condition, if any.

Causes-

The main component of vaginal itching is the trigger, as there can be many of them. The various causes of vaginal itching are-

Irritants: Vaginal contact with certain irritants can be the cause behind vaginal itching. Some common substances that irritate the vagina are:

Creams

Ointments

Detergents

Harsh soaps

Topical contraceptives

Scented toiletries

Skin Problems: Certain skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis can result in itching and redness in the genitals. Eczema is a condition which is akin to allergies. Psoriasis is a condition which is characterized by itchy, scaly and red patches on the skin. These symptoms may slowly start spreading to the vagina.

Infections in the Vagina: Infections in the vagina such as bacterial vaginosis and yeast infection can lead to vaginal itching. In addition to the vaginal itching, they can also lead to a foul smelling discharge from the vagina.

Menopause: During menopause, the estrogen levels in the body dip, thus resulting in a dry vagina. A dry vagina can sometimes lead to vaginal itching.

Stress: Excessive stress can lead to vaginal itching as stress affects the immune system in the body. A weakened immune system makes one prone to a number of disorders, vaginal itching being one of them.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases: STDs such as gonorrhea and chlamydia are disorders, symptoms of which include itching in the vagina.

Treatments-

The treatment for vaginal itching begins with a diagnosis of the underlying condition that might be causing it in the first place. The treatment for this disorder is cause specific; hence the underlying condition needs to be identified. Antibiotics and antifungal medications may be administered to treat vaginal itching. For menopause related causes, estrogen creams or tablets are required.

You can also take preventive measures such as:

Avoid using scented soaps.

Use protection during sex.

Wear cotton based underwear.

Eat plenty of yoghurt.

The female reproductive organ is an area of the human body where many microbial organisms inhabit together and it is a necessary requirement for its health. These organisms may include fungi and bacteria and play important roles individually in maintaining the pH levels (the acidic and alkaline balance) levels of the vagina. However, when one of these, especially the fungi go out of balance and begin to propagate, it results in a vaginal yeast infection.

Symptoms
A yeast infection or vaginal candidiasis is a fungal infection that causes extreme itchiness of the vulva (which is the opening of the vagina) and the further insides of the vagina as well. It may result in a white discharge from time to time and causes vaginal inflammation. Some of the other symptoms are:

Pain in the vagina akin to a burning sensation while urinating or when having sex
Rashes in the vagina
General soreness and pain
White odorless discharge, which is thick in consistency
Colorless watery discharges can occur as well
Swelling and redness near the vulva or the vagina in general
Causes
The type of fungi that causes vaginal yeast infections is the candida fungus . Usually, this fungus is present within the vagina, but is kept in check by the Lactobacillus bacteria. These are bacteria naturally present within the vagina and secrete acids, which keep the fungi in check. However, when the levels of bacteria are reduced, it will cause the levels of fungi to increase causing a yeast infection.



Risk Factors
The below mentioned factors can aggravate the risks of this disease:

Problems brought on by diabetes
A compromised immune system
Pregnancy may also disturb the balance
Starting to use or stopping the use of oral contraceptive pills
Hormone therapy
Usage of antibiotics that may kill off lactobacillus bacteria within the vagina
Generally, yeast infections are not considered to be sexually transmitted, although yeast infection could be spread through sexual contact as well.

The primary treatment includes a course of anti fungal oral medication to lessen the levels of the fungi within your vagina. It could be supplemented with vaginal creams, which may reduce the itching and the inflammation. If you have recurrent infection multiple times within a year, then you may have to go for a longer course of treatment and correct the underlying conditions that may be causing it.

The female reproductive organ is an area of the human body where many microbial organisms inhabit together and it is a necessary requirement for its health. These organisms may include fungi and bacteria and play important roles individually in maintaining the pH levels (the acidic and alkaline balance) levels of the vagina. However, when one of these, especially the fungi go out of balance and begin to propagate, it results in a vaginal yeast infection.

Symptoms
A yeast infection or vaginal candidiasis is a fungal infection that causes extreme itchiness of the vulva (which is the opening of the vagina) and the further insides of the vagina as well. It may result in a white discharge from time to time and causes vaginal inflammation. Some of the other symptoms are:

Pain in the vagina akin to a burning sensation while urinating or when having sex
Rashes in the vagina
General soreness and pain
White odorless discharge, which is thick in consistency
Colorless watery discharges can occur as well
Swelling and redness near the vulva or the vagina in general
Causes
The type of fungi that causes vaginal yeast infections is the candida fungus . Usually, this fungus is present within the vagina, but is kept in check by the Lactobacillus bacteria. These are bacteria naturally present within the vagina and secrete acids, which keep the fungi in check. However, when the levels of bacteria are reduced, it will cause the levels of fungi to increase causing a yeast infection.

Risk Factors
The below mentioned factors can aggravate the risks of this disease:

Problems brought on by diabetes
A compromised immune system
Pregnancy may also disturb the balance
Starting to use or stopping the use of oral contraceptive pills
Hormone therapy
Usage of antibiotics that may kill off lactobacillus bacteria within the vagina
Generally, yeast infections are not considered to be sexually transmitted, although yeast infection could be spread through sexual contact as well.

The primary treatment includes a course of anti fungal oral medication to lessen the levels of the fungi within your vagina. It could be supplemented with vaginal creams, which may reduce the itching and the inflammation. If you have recurrent infection multiple times within a year, then you may have to go for a longer course of treatment and correct the underlying conditions that may be causing it.

The vagina is a home to number of different types of fungi that under normal conditions are harmless. However, if the immune system is weakened, the Candida fungus can multiply and lead to a yeast infection or vaginal thrush. This condition is marked by the inflammation of the vagina and vulva along with itchiness in the vagina, discharge and a burning sensation while urinating.

Vaginal Candidiasis can be very well controlled with Homeopathic remedies. The recurrence of Vaginal Candidiasis can also be prevented with suitable Homeopathic remedies. Homeopathic medicines, which are made from natural substances, help to extract the disease from its root by raising the body s immunity. When the immune system gets strongly empowered with Homeopathic remedies, the flourishing of fungus in vagina gets halted. As the fungus growth gradually declines, the symptoms also disappear along with it.

Homeopathy is an excellent way of treating this infection. As it has negligible side effects it is safe to use for both children and adults. Homeopathic treatment of this condition also prevents it from recurring by extracting the root cause of the infection and boosting the body s immunity. Some popular homeopathic remedies for Vaginal Candidiasis are:

Sepia and Calcarea Carb: These are often prescribed in cases where there is a white vaginal discharge. Sepia is prescribed in cases where women also complain of itchiness that is not resolved by scratching, soreness and swelling of the labia minora, vulva and vagina, heat in the genital area and excoriation of the vulva. In cases where the discharge worsens after passing urine or where the discharge is accompanied by burning and itchiness is the genitals, calcarea carb is prescribed. Here, a woman may find her symptoms worsening before and after periods and may notice swelling and redness of the vulva and vagina.

Pulsatilla: Vaginal candidiasis that is characterised by a creamy vaginal discharge can be treated with pulsatilla. The discharge is usually also accompanied by burning and itchiness in the genital area and experienced throughout the month. Some women also complain of a backache and may experience an absence of thirst along with the desire for cool air.

Thuja and Nitric Acid: This is used to treat cases of Vaginal Candidiasis accompanied by excessive soreness and ulcers in the vulva and vagina. Thuja is prescribed especially in cases where there is excessive discomfort in the form of burning sensations in the vulva and vagina. Nitric acid is helpful in cases where a stitching pain is prominent and there is a complain of irritation in the genital area. A white vaginal discharge may also leave behind a yellow stain in such cases.

Monilia Albicans: This is used when there is a presence of cracks or fissures in the vagina or vulva accompanied by itchiness. Some women may also notice the presence of vesicular eruptions that contain fluid on the vulva or vagina.

Helonias: This is used to treat cases marked by a curd-like the deposit in the vulva. The patient may also complain of inflammation and redness of the genital area along with sensations of heat and burning. A backache, weakness and prostration are other common symptoms that can be addressed by this homeopathic remedy.

What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial Vaginosis is an infection that occurs in and around the female genitalia. It does not usually pose a major health threat and is a mild infection that can be controlled and cured with timely medical intervention. Although it is believed to be sexually transmitted, it can also affect women who are not sexually active.

Bacterial Vaginosis can however, be dangerous for women who are pregnant and are near to their delivery date. It can cause severe uterine infection and increases the chance of miscarriage.

In some cases, pelvic surgeries, which include caesarean, hysterectomy, abortion or other abdominal surgery, bacterial vaginosis can be contracted during the surgical procedure. This can further complicate the condition of the patient.

Bacterial Vaginosis is a common complaint among women who have physically reached the child bearing age and symptoms of this physical problem can become prominent at any time of the menstrual cycle.

Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis

Unhygienic washrooms

Dirty, unwashed underwear

Multiple sexual partners

Change in the vaginal pH, causing the reduction in the protective acidic secretion that prevents the growth of other harmful bacteria

It can also arise from the placement of Intrauterine device (IUD), a contraceptive device placed to prevent the eggs released by the ovaries, from reaching the uterus.

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

The most common sign of bacterial vaginosis is a foul smelling vaginal discharge.

The discharge increases after sexual activities.

Discomfort during urination

In some rare cases, there is itching and dryness

In most cases, bacterial vaginosis does not reveal too many symptoms and does not even cause intense irritation.

Treatment

Bacterial Vaginosis can be treated with antibiotics that are generally to be continued for a course of 7 days.

Symptoms and discomfort of bacterial vaginosis generally recede within 2-3 days. However, it is recommended that the medicine should not be stopped even after the symptoms disappear.

Only in rare cases, certain antibiotics may lead to a vaginal yeast infection. In case of redness, inflammation, irritation and undesirable discharge, you must seek medical attention immediately.