Vaginal infections
Trichomoniasis
Cause
Trichomonas vaginitis (protozoan)
Signs & symptoms
- Inflammation of vagina, producing burning and itching.
- Frothy yellow-white or yellowish-brown vaginal discharge.
Objectives of treatment
- To remove exudate, relieve inflammation, restore acidity, and re-establish
normal bacterial flora.
- Vinegar douche (2 Tbsp in 1 quart of water).
- For recurrence, repeat treatment and include sexual partner.
Monilial infection
Cause
Candida albicans (fungus)
Signs & symptoms
- Inflammation of vagina producing itching & reddish irritation.
- White cheeselike discharge clinging to epithelium.
Objectives of treatment
- To eradicate the fungus: Local applications of gentian violet.
- To relieve other causative factors: Stop antibiotic therapy; determine
if diabetes or other systemic disease is present.
Infection of Bartholin's gland
Cause
Escherichia coli, Trichomonas vaginitis Staphylococcus,
Streptococcus, Gonococcus
Signs & symptoms
- Redness around Bartholin's gland.
- Swelling and edema.
- Development of Bartholin's abscess.
Objectives of treatment
- To drain the abscess or cause it to dissipate.
Cervicitis — acute and chronic
Cause
Gonorrhea, Streptococcus, Many pathogenic bacteria
Signs & symptoms
- Profuse purulent vaginal discharge.
- Backache.
- Urinary frequency and urgency.
Objectives of treatment
- To determine the cause: Cytologic examination of cervical smear.
- To eradicate the gonococcus: Use well done fever treatments.
Postmenopausal vaginitis (atrophic vaginitis)
Cause
Lack of estrin effects
Signs & symptoms
- Loss of redness, tissue folds, and epithelial covering of the vagina.
- Itching and burning.
Objectives of treatment
- Perineal pour 4-6 times daily.
- Vitamin E oil capsule inserted each night high in vagina.
 
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