Aerobic vaginitis can cause vaginal inflammation and discomfort. Know the symptoms and treatment options for conditions that have almost impact on women during the reproductive stage.
Bacterial vaginosis, a common infection there, is often criticized for the worsening odor of vaginal discharge. However, that is not always the reason behind abnormal vaginal discharge. Aerobic vaginitis associated with effective aerobic bacteria can lead to abnormal excretion with inflammation and discomfort. This condition can also cause pain during the gender and lead to a burning sensation while peeing. This condition primarily affects women in the reproductive stage. However, it can be easily treated with the help of antibiotics.
What is aerobic vaginitis?
This is a vaginal infection characterized by the overgrowth of harmful bacteria or bacteria that thrive in inflammation and oxygen, explains obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Chetna Jain. It includes the presence of bacteria such as:
- Escherichia coli (Escherichia coli)
- Enterococcus faecalis
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS)
- Staphylococcus aureus
“These bacteria damage the inner layer of the vagina, causing severe inflammation, redness and discomfort,” experts say. A study published in the 2017 Microbiology Journal Research shows that the prevalence of this condition ranges from 7 to 12%.
What are the symptoms of aerobic vaginitis?
Symptoms range from mild to severe and may resemble vaginal infections such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. “But aerobic vaginitis is clear because of its inflammatory properties,” experts say.
- Abnormal vaginal discharge with a yellowish, greenish or brownish color. It can be watery or thick and has an unpleasant smell. The vaginal walls can appear inflamed, swollen and irritated.
- Continuous vaginal itching due to stimulation of the vaginal layer.
- Especially the sensation of burning or stinging wounds when urinating.
- The gender can be painful or uncomfortable due to dry vaginal inflammation.
- It can stimulate the urinary tract and lead to burning and discomfort when urinating.
What causes aerobic vaginitis?
The key causes of this vaginal infection are:
- Reduced lactobacilli that normally maintains vaginal acidity and prevents infection.
- Over-cleaning or using harsh soap will destroy the vaginal pH (possible hydrogen).
- Poor perineal hygiene, especially after use of the bathroom.
- Unprotected sexual activity can introduce or spread pathogenic bacteria.
- Vagina dutch with scented tampons, and perfume products for intimate areas can disrupt the natural flora.
Risk factors for aerobic vaginitis
Below are some of the major risk factors for this condition:
1. Woman having unsafe sex
“Unprotected sex or sex with multiple partners can introduce harmful bacteria into the vaginal area, which increases the chances of aerobic vaginitis,” experts say. Sexually transmitted bacteria due to unprotected gender can introduce new pathogens into the vagina, leading to microbiota imbalances.
2. Pregnant woman
Expecting a mother is particularly vulnerable to aerobic vaginitis due to physiological and hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. “Increased levels of progesterone can reduce the body’s natural ability to combat bacterial overgrowth, and the vaginal environment tends to develop infections such as aerobic vaginitis,” says Dr. Jain. A study published in the journal Reproductive Health in 2022 shows the increased risk of negative pregnancy outcomes, such as abortion, stillbirth and early childbirth.
3. Recurrence of bacterial infection
People with repeated or chronic infections such as bacterial vaginitis are at increased risk for developing aerobic vaginitis. “This is due to changes in the vaginal flora that are caused by repeated recurrence of infections there,” says Dr. Jain.
How is aerobic vaginitis diagnosed?
Here’s how aerobic vaginitis is diagnosed:
1. Clinical tests
Your doctor will start by checking your medical history, including symptoms, sexual health history, and potential risk factors. During a pelvic examination, doctors may observe the vaginal wall for signs of infection, such as redness and swelling in the vaginal tissue, or pale yellowish discharge from the foul odor.
2. Clinical tests
Clinical tests are often required to confirm the diagnosis. These include:
- Vagina swab: The doctor will use a cotton swab to take a sample of vaginal discharge. This sample is sent to the lab for further testing under microscope and culture.
- Microscopy: Discharge slides may be prepared to confirm the presence of abnormal aerobic bacteria.
How to treat aerobic vaginitis?
Treatment of aerobic vaginitis usually involves a combination of drug and lifestyle changes, so that the natural balance of the vaginal microbiota is restored.
1. Antibiotic treatment
“Antibiotics are the main treatment for this condition. They help reduce the overgrowth of aerobic bacteria that causes the condition,” experts say. Clindamycin is a common antibiotic used to treat aerobic vaginitis, particularly in pregnant women, according to a study published in the 2022 journal Reproductive Health.
2. Local treatment
Topical antibacterial creams or gels can be used with oral antibiotics. “Metronidazole gels are often applied directly to the vaginal area and help clear infections,” says Dr. Jain. Such treatments are usually useful when the infection is localized to a private area.
3. Probiotics
Probiotics, especially those containing good bacteria from Lactobacillus, help restore the natural vaginal flora by introducing beneficial bacteria. Oral probiotics containing strains such as lactobacillus rhamnosus and lactobacillus reuteri help to improve the balance of the vaginal microbiome and prevent this infection from recurring.
4. Correcting Hormonal Imbalance
If hormonal changes such as during pregnancy are factors that contribute to this condition, managing hormonal imbalances may be helpful. “In pregnant women, hormonal changes can resolve naturally after childbirth, but supportive care such as probiotics can be useful during pregnancy,” experts say.
Aerobic vaginitis is a condition that causes abnormal vaginal discharge, inflammation and discomfort. It is primarily treated with oral and topical antibiotics. Once you’ve cleaned up, go to your doctor to avoid recurrent infections.
Notes: All medications for aerobic vaginitis should only be taken after consultation with a doctor.
Related FAQs
Can aerobic vaginitis cause pregnancy complications?
Untreated aerobic vaginitis can cause inflammation of the vagina and uterine regions, increasing the risk of preterm birth. Babies born early often face more health issues, including difficulty breathing, developmental delays, and weaknesses in the immune system.
Do probiotics help to get rid of aerobic vaginitis?
Probiotics can play a supportive role in restoring healthy vaginal microbiome. Probiotics, especially those containing lactic acid bacteria, can help replenish bacteria that are beneficial to the vagina. In aerobic vaginitis, the vaginal environment is dominated by aerobic bacteria such as E. coli and enterococcus, which destroy the natural balance.
