Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Corynebacterium Vaginale Vaginitis - Bacterial Vaginosis
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Bacterial vaginosis is a swelling and irritation of the vaginal tissue.
What is going on in the body?
Bacterial vaginosis appears to be caused by an overgrowth of several types of bacteria, some requiring oxygen while others do not. While these bacteria are normally present in the vagina, an overgrowth may cause symptoms of irritation and inflammation.
What are the causes and risks of the disease?
It is not known for sure what causes this condition. It is probably caused by an overgrowth of certain bacteria that are normally present in the vagina.
Bacterial vaginosis that is left untreated or undiagnosed can cause more problems. For instance:
Symptoms & Signs
What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?
Symptoms of this condition can include:
Diagnosis & Tests
How is the disease diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will perform a pelvic exam to obtain a sample of the vaginal discharge and look at it under the microscope. A blood test also will be done. The presence of special "clue cells" in the vaginal discharge, along with a high white blood cell count, suggest bacterial vaginosis.
Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the disease?
It is not known how to prevent this condition. It is possible that abstinence or using condoms may help.
What are the risks to others?
It is possible that this infection is spread by sexual intercourse.
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the disease?
The antibiotic
What are the side effects of the treatments?
The side effects of
What happens after treatment for the disease?
After beginning treatment, symptoms usually go away within a few days. The infection recurs in 15% of women despite attempts at prevention and multiple treatment regimens.
Attribution
Author:Eva Martin, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Cafiero, Celeste, MA
Edit Date:05/19/00
Reviewer:Sandy Keefe, RN, MSN
Date Reviewed:09/19/01