Recurrent Gardernella Vaginal Infections
The most commonly overlooked reason for repeat Gardernella
vaginal infections is re-infection from a partner. Symptoms are the
following: profuse, strong-smelling discharge and pain and burning
during or after intercourse. Often, women and even their doctors,
falsely believe that they are spontaneously relapsing or not being
cured when symptoms return. If a woman is getting relief from
medication and then is again experiencing symptoms of an
infection after stopping the medication, re-infection is most
probably the culprit. If this is the case, and she is sexually active,
her partner needs to be treated for Gardernella as well. Men carry
this infection without many symptoms. The regimen and dosing of
Flagyl are different for men. Condoms should be used until both
people have been tested and are found to be negative.
Another thing to try is a longer period of continuous treatment with
Flagyl. There is also a topical sulfur-based cream available, which
can be used in combination with the Flagyl.
Most vaginal infections are very distinctive in appearance and
symptoms. Therefore, it is standard for doctors to diagnosis and
treat these infections based on what they are told and their own
physical examination of a patient. If a woman continues to get
recurrent Gardernella vaginal infections, she should have lab tests
and cultures done in order to confirm that her doctor is treating the
right organism or cause.
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