What bacteria cause bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is often caused by an imbalance in vaginal flora, with an abnormal increase in anaerobic bacteria, Gardnerella, Prevotella, etc. Understanding pathogenic bacteria can help to better take preventive and treatment measures, and it is particularly important to maintain a balance in vaginal flora.

1) Main pathogenic bacteria

- Gardnerella vaginalis: This is a conditional pathogen and the main cause of bacterial vaginosis. When the lactobacilli in the vagina decrease, the overgrowth of Gardnerella can cause inflammation and produce fishy discharge.

- Prevotellaspecies: They produce proteolytic enzymes that break down vaginal secretions, further damaging the vaginal environment and leading to mucosal inflammation.

- Peptostreptococcus species: A type of anaerobic bacteria that usually works together with other bacteria to aggravate dysbiosis.

These bacteria often coexist to form a "biofilm" that protects them from attack by the immune system or drugs, which is why bacterial vaginosis is difficult to treat.

2) Causes of bacterial vaginosis

-Genetic factors may influence the tolerance and metabolic environment of the vaginal flora.

-External environmental factors include unclean sexual life, excessive vaginal cleaning, wearing underwear with poor breathability, etc.

-Physiological factors such as low immunity, hormonal changes during pregnancy, and environmental changes caused by diabetes.

- Other diseases including sexually transmitted diseases and pelvic infections may cause secondary bacterial vaginosis.

3) Treatment and prevention methods

-Drug treatment: Mainly metronidazole or clindamycin, which can be taken orally, vaginal gel or topical agent. Specific medication should be taken according to the doctor's advice.

- Local treatment: Application of lactic acid bacteria preparations to restore the balance of vaginal flora, such as increasing the proportion of lactobacilli.

-Lifestyle adjustments: Avoid frequent use of vaginal douches, choose loose, breathable underwear, and keep the vulva clean and dry every day.

-Diet: Eating foods rich in probiotics, such as yogurt, can help improve the flora environment.

Bacterial vaginosis is closely related to local hygiene and body immunity, and requires timely treatment and a healthy lifestyle. If symptoms recur or become severe, seek medical attention as soon as possible and receive professional examinations and guidance to prevent the spread of inflammation and affect your health.