Vaginal Environment
• The vagina is a dynamic ecosystem that
contains approximately 109 bacterial colonyforming
units.
• Normal vaginal discharge is clear to white,
odorless, and of high viscosity.
• Normal bacterial flora is dominated by
lactobacilli – other potential pathogens present.
• Acidic environment (pH 3.8-4.2) inhibits the
overgrowth of bacteria
• Some lactobacilli also produce H2O2, a potential
microbicide
Vaginitis
• Usually characterized by:
– Vaginal discharge
– Vulvar itching
– Irritation
– Odor
• Common types
– Trichomoniasis (15%-20%)
– Bacterial vaginosis (40%-45%)
– Vulvovaginal candidiasis (20%-25%)
Other Causes of Vaginitis
• Mucopurulent cervicitis
• Herpes simplex virus
• Atrophic vaginitis
• Allergic reactions
• Vulvar vestibulitis
• Foreign bodies