Cytolytic Vaginosis – More Information
Cytolytic vaginosis is usually grouped along with bacterial vaginosis, Candida infection and Trichomoniasis. However, it is usually very different from the other three in that it is not an infection but a condition with an unknown cause. The manifestation of cytolytic vaginosis varies from person to person, making it very hard to diagnose and treat cytolytic vaginosis. However, the main symptom of this condition is the production of fishy smelling vaginal discharge, which can range from whitish thick to watery thin discharge. Another common symptom is the continuous itchiness, redness and swelling of the vulva and vaginal area. Such symptoms usually affect the patient psychologically and socially by making them to be withdrawn and to be depressed.
In order to diagnose and treat cytolytic vaginosis, three basic tests are done on the patient. A sample of the vaginal fluid is taken for a pH test. If the pH is not around 4, it means that the vaginal environment has bad bacteria. Another pH test is the potassium hydroxide test, which is used to determine the acidity of the fluid. The microscope cell test, however, is the only conclusive test that can be conducted, because it indicates the type of cells and bacterium in the fluid.
Cytolytic vaginosis is caused by an overgrowth of the lactobacillus bacteria. This bacterium is normally a good bacteria which is usually found in the vaginal fluid. Its work is to convert glucose to lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide. The lactic acid provides an acidic medium in the vaginal tract. Hydrogen peroxide is usually an antiseptic agent for wounds and surfaces. Therefore, it keeps the vaginal area free from germs and bad bacteria. Therefore, an overgrowth of the lactobacillus bacteria often results to an imbalance of the environment. The vaginal fluid produced as a result is usually full of lactic acid, acetic acid and carbon dioxide gas. Also, the deadly formic acid, which deactivates cells, is produced. The result is itchiness, swelling and pain. These symptoms are made worse during passing of urine or sexual intercourse.
Too much lactobacilli cause a lower pH than normal, making the environment very acidic. Therefore, the best way to treat cytolytic vaginosis is to counteract the high pH with a basic medium. Also, the other way to treat cytolytic vaginosis is by counteracting the effects of antibiotics in your body by taking probiotics.
Douching using a solution or paste of baking soda is the conventional method used to raise the pH to normal levels. A bicarbonate capsule, which is available in pharmacies, can also be inserted into the vagina. However, this method is usually very harsh to the vaginal lining and produces adverse reactions in some people. Natural treatment by use of yoghurt, a probiotic, and plenty of water is the best. One should keep off from sexual intercourse during treatment of cytolytic vaginosis. Also, one should wear white cotton underwear during the day and none at all during the night. Tight clothes should be avoided so as to ensure free flow of air.