Bacterial Vaginosis Flashcards
(11 cards)
1
Q
What is bacterial vaginosis?
A
Overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina - specially anaerobic bacteria e.g. gardenerella vaginalis
2
Q
Cause of bacterial vaginosis
A
- NOT an STI
- due to loss of lactobacilli in vagina
- lactobacilli normally keeps vaginal ph low <4.5
- reduced number casues pH to rise
- more alkaline environment allows for anerobic bacteria to multiply
3
Q
What microorganisms cause bacterial vaginosis
A
- garnerella vaginalis (most common)
- mycoplasma hominis
- pre to Ella species
4
Q
Risk factors of bacterial vaginosis
A
- multiple sexual partners
- excessive vaginal cleaning - douching, vaginal washes
- recent abx
- smoking
- copper coil
5
Q
Presentation of bacterial vaginosis
A
- fishy smelling grey/white vaginal discharge
- without itching, irritation or pain
6
Q
Investigations of bacterial vaginosis
A
- vaginal pH >4.5
- high or low charcoal vaginal swab > microscopy
- whiff test
7
Q
Bacterial vaginosis findings on microscopy
A
Clue cells
8
Q
Management of bacterial vaginosis
A
- no treatment if asymptomatic
- first line: oral metronidazole
- second line; topical metronidazole or Clindamycin
9
Q
Complications of bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy
A
- miscarriage
- preterm delivery
- premature rupture of membranes
- low birth weight
- Chorioamnionitis
- postpartum endometritis
10
Q
What is chorioamnionitis?
A
Inflammation of Fetal membranes due to bacterial infection
11
Q
What should be avoided whilst on metronidazole + why?
A
Alcohol
Can cause ‘disfuliram like reaction’ > N+V, flushing
