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Gardnerella vaginalis infection is caused by the proliferation of the gardranella bacterium in a woman’s vagina. There are many different types of bacteria that live in the vagina, some of them “good” bacteria such as lactobacilli and other “bad” ones such as gardnarella. These bacteria live in a balanced state in the vagina with no adverse effects. A healthy balance of these bacteria in the vagina is maintained by the mildly acidic pH of the vagina. When this pH is altered to become alkaline in nature, it results in a proliferation of the gardranella bacteria which causes the unpleasant symptoms associated with bacterial vaginosis.

The common causes of gardranella infection include:

• Transmission through sexual intercourse with an infected person
• It may arise spontaneously in women who are not sexually active, often caused by an alkaline environment
• Contact with contaminated objects such as douches, towels and wet swimsuits
• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies such as low iron and zinc levels
• Use of IUDs for birth control
• Compromised immune systems
• Stress
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Wearing tight fitting clothes and undergarments especially those made from synthetic materials

Symptoms of gardranella infection include:

• Foul smelling greyish discharge from the vagina
• An itching or burning sensation in the vagina
• A burning sensation while urinating
• Pain during sexual intercourse

It can also affect men, usually without any symptoms being evident. Gardranella infection is usually diagnosed by a microscopic examination of the vaginal discharge. A bacterial culture is taken and can positively identify the presence of the bacteria. The bacteria may also be detected during a pap smear. A test of pH levels in the vagina may also be performed and any indication of alkalinity will corroborate the diagnosis.

The treatment for gardranella infection is pretty straightforward. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics such as ampicillin or metronidazole and creams or gels to apply on the affected areas. It is advisable to abstain from drinking alcohol while taking these medications as it may result in adverse drug interactions. For the same reason it is advisable to inform your doctor about any other medications you may be taking at that time.

If you have any of the symptoms of gardranella infection then you should consult your doctor immediately. Left untreated the bacteria can multiply and spread through your urinary tract and may even affect the uterus and the fallopian tubes, causing more serious infections. This is more so in the case of pregnant women who need to safeguard these areas against any infection that may affect their pregnancy.

The most effective way to prevent gardranella infection is to maintain good personal hygiene and avoid wearing tight clothes especially during the summer season. Practice safe sex measures such as insisting that your partner wears a condom and avoiding having multiple partners. If you have an infection, then make sure that your partner is treated as well to avoid the risk of re-infection. Avoid douching frequently and make sure that your diet is a well-balanced and healthy one.

Other home remedies which can be used along with the treatment prescribed by your doctor include:

• Application of plain yogurt to your vagina may help in redressing the bacterial imbalance in the vagina. You can also use a tampon that has been soaked in yogurt and replace it every few hours.
• Wrap a few garlic cloves in a gauze and insert it into your vagina. The anti-bacterial properties of garlic can help fight the infection.     
• Apple cider vinegar can also help to fight off the infection. Apply a few drops to the vagina.
• Avoid sexual intercourse during this period as it may aggravate your symptoms.

You should attempt these home remedies only after your doctor has confirmed a diagnosis of gardranella vaginalis and never as a substitute any medications that may be prescribed.

Reference:

1. http://www.csun.edu/studenthealthcenter/pdfs/education/bacterial_vaginosis.pdf

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.

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