What are the dangers of colpitis during pregnancy and what to do about it? Colpitis during pregnancy: features of treatment in the early and late stages Treatment of candidal colpitis in pregnant women.
Previously, the diagnosis of colpitis during pregnancy was a very rare occurrence. But over time, it began to be diagnosed more and more often, and now more than 75% of women of childbearing age turn to specialists for treatment.
Colpitis can pose a threat to the woman and the fetus. These are inflammatory processes of the vaginal mucosa and parts of the cervix.
The disease is characterized by:
- swelling;
- abundant white, in rare cases purulent, discharge, which is accompanied by an unpleasant odor.
Often the process accompanies inflammatory processes of the external genital organs and occurs in the form of vulvovaginitis. This occurs due to sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea, candidiasis, chlamydia, herpes and many others.
In pregnant women, colpitis begins due to a decrease in the immune system, when natural defense mechanisms are disrupted and a favorable environment for the proliferation of bacteria appears. Inflammation of the vagina during pregnancy is caused by various reasons, including an imbalance of normal and pathogenic microflora.
The main causes of colpitis during pregnancy:
- vaginal damage;
- lack of personal hygiene;
- allergic reaction to drugs;
- frequent douching;
- long-term use of antibiotics;
- disease of the endocrine system.
There are several types of disease.
- Nonspecific and specific. The first is caused by opportunistic microorganisms that are part of the human microflora. Specific inflammations can occur when pathogenic bacteria enter the vagina. This can happen during unprotected intercourse, poor personal hygiene, or during a gynecological examination.
- Candidiasis or yeast. The most common type of disease. It occurs due to the proliferation of the Candida fungus, which every woman has in small quantities in her microbial flora. Colpitis during pregnancy is accompanied by discharge, a white coating on the labia, a woman may feel itching, burning (you can see what it looks like in the photo).
- Emphysematous vaginitis. Diagnosed during pregnancy. Bubbles with clear liquid and gas inside appear on the mucous membrane. A few weeks after birth, the disease goes away.
- Hydrocyanic or atrophic. It does not occur in pregnant women, it occurs in women over 50 years of age, and it can be difficult to get rid of.
- Trichomonas vaginitis. Occurs when Trichomonas enters the vagina. More often, the disease occurs through sexual contact, as well as when using someone else's personal hygiene products (towel, etc.).
- Acute, chronic. Abundant mucopurulent discharge begins, severe itching and burning occurs. Heaviness in the lower abdomen and acute pain appear. Some people develop a fever. It begins due to decreased immunity. With chronic colpitis in a woman during pregnancy, the symptoms may be less noticeable, but irritation of the genital organs appears.
Occurs as a result of the proliferation of Candida fungus
Main signs of the disease
Symptoms in pregnant women are identical to those that appear in women in their normal state. The most basic signs are discharge. The only thing that can change is their number. In a more advanced form, irritation begins, maceration of the labia majora and minora, as well as the inner surface of the thighs and pubis. The skin turns bright red and begins to itch.
During an examination by a gynecologist, hyperemia of the vaginal mucosa and swelling are visible. Dirty white, yellow or green formations accumulate on the walls. The discharge may vary in color - from white to slightly green - and have an unpleasant odor. Itching spreads near the genitals and intensifies with walking, exercise and poor diet.
Without proper treatment, colpitis develops into erosion, which will have an adverse effect during pregnancy. And then bleeding may begin, which begins after contact (sexual intercourse or during douching). Pain occurs in the ovaries, in the lower abdomen, and if the urethra is damaged, there may be pain when urinating. It happens that symptoms are absent or go unnoticed, which is why it is so important to undergo routine examinations with a doctor on time.
To diagnose, the doctor needs to conduct an examination and examine vaginal discharge for bacterial flora. Afterwards, he conducts a bacteriological culture and takes a blood and urine test. After the necessary actions, he prescribes treatment.
Result of bacteriological culture
Anyway folk recipes are very useful, but it is better to combine them with the remedies prescribed by a specialist. If you plan to treat colpitis folk remedies, this must be agreed with a specialist.
Itching, burning and redness can be relieved by a decoction; it requires:
- chamomile;
- Oak bark;
- calendula;
- oak buds.
Mode of application.
- Take two tablespoons of chamomile and calendula and chop.
- Grind the bark and buds of oak in the same quantity.
- Pour boiling water (0.5 liters).
- Leave for at least half an hour.
- Take baths or wash your genitals before going to bed.
Can be used
At the treatment stage, douching with acid will help greatly, they help protect against infections and restore the alkaline environment of the uterus.
For the recipe you need:
- lemon juice;
- vinegar;
- coltsfoot or oak bark.
Instructions for use.
- Take a spoon lemon juice or vinegar.
- Dilute in 1 liter of water (warm, boiled).
- Do douching once a day.
- If the doctor prescribes the use of suppositories, you can soak them in a weak decoction of coltsfoot or oak bark.
Any use of these recipes that you plan to treat colpitis is permissible only after consulting a doctor.
Possible complications during pregnancy
Vaginitis during pregnancy is dangerous because the infection can spread. Timely and qualified treatment is necessary. The main complications that may be:
- premature termination of pregnancy;
- frozen pregnancy;
- polyhydramnios;
- the birth of a baby with infectious diseases (pneumonia, etc.);
- infection of the placenta leads to fetoplacental insufficiency;
- chronic hypoxia, delays in fetal development;
- infection of the baby through the birth canal.
But, nevertheless, with the necessary attention, the outcome is most often favorable and there are no dangerous consequences for the child, if the woman does not experience a relapse.
When colpitis is diagnosed during pregnancy, pathogenic flora can infect the fetus. Infections affect the uterus and cervix; postpartum endometritis and erosion may develop.
Varieties
If the infection gets into the amniotic sac, it can affect the amniotic fluid. If this protective system is violated, the child becomes infected.
At the first appearance of symptoms, it is necessary to contact a specialist and after treatment to prevent relapse.
Necessary preventive measures
The process of treating vaginitis in pregnant women is much more difficult than for women in the normal state. Because during pregnancy, many effective remedies and medications simply cannot be used.
Those methods that the doctor allows to use to cure colpitis in women are often not effective enough. That is why experts recommend using several methods at once and give advice on how to prevent the occurrence of the disease.
- observe special diet, a woman should limit her intake of fatty, spicy or fried foods;
- before planning a pregnancy, it is necessary to be tested for infectious diseases;
- timely treatment of diseases of the reproductive system;
- ensure that you have a strong immune system;
- maintaining intimate hygiene;
- underwear should be made from natural fabrics;
- undergo antibacterial therapy, drugs are prescribed by a doctor who will take into account the timing of pregnancy;
- if the disease occurs, it is necessary to abstain from sexual intercourse;
- If a woman has been diagnosed with trichomonas colpitis, both partners should be treated, otherwise a relapse will cause serious consequences during pregnancy.
Reviews from those who were treated.
Anastasia Kon:
I was diagnosed with colpitis in the second trimester. There were no particular inconveniences, but I still felt uncomfortable, especially since I was afraid of harming the baby. I was prescribed a course of Hexicon (suppositories in the morning and evening for a week). There was no more vaginitis. But three days before giving birth, the doctor once again advised me to use suppositories for prevention.
Liliya Pershina:
I was diagnosed with colpitis at 32 weeks of pregnancy. At first I thought it was thrush, because the symptoms were similar, I used Pimafucin suppositories, after some time it all started again. After I went to my gynecologist, she took tests for research, then said that I had vaginitis and prescribed treatment (it was bacterial colpitis). Vaginal Metrogyl helped me - it can be used during pregnancy. Every day I rinsed with chamomile infusion. Everything went away within a week. I am pleased.
: Borovikova Olga
gynecologist, ultrasound doctor, geneticist
During pregnancy, a woman usuallymonitors his health especially carefully and reacts with alarm to every unusual symptom.
Often a cause of panic expectant mother you are becoming unusualdivision and discomfort in the genital area.This complex of symptoms most likely indicates adevelopment of the pathological process, which in medicine is called vaginitis or colpitis. In pregnant women, this condition is observed especially often against the background of decreased immunity, hormonal changes in the body and high loads on all organs and woman's systems.
Vaginitis during pregnancy is a good reason to immediately contact a gynecologist and begin treatment for this dangerous pathology. Diagnose the disease anddetermine how to treat colpitis during pregnancy without causing harmqualified gynecologists will advise mother and baby.
Symptoms of colpitis during pregnancy
First of all, you should determine that vaginitis or colpitis is an inflammatory disease that affects the mucous membranes of the vagina. The inflamed walls of the vagina swell and become hyperemic. Also, isolated hemorrhages are observed on the surface of the vaginal tissues. If the inflammation does not spread beyond the vagina, the woman does not notice visual manifestations of the disease, while in some cases the pathological process affects the external genitalia. In this case, inflammation can be seen with the naked eye.
The characteristic signs of colpitis during pregnancy do not differ from the symptoms of a non-pregnant woman:
- itching and burning in the vaginal area - the inflammatory process irritates the delicate mucous membranes, which causes discomfort and sometimes pain in the vaginal walls;
- lower abdominal pain- this symptom is especially frightening for pregnant women, but it is not associated with the tone of the uterus, as many assume, but with tissue inflammation;
- the appearance of specific secretions- discharge during colpitis during pregnancy is very abundant and can have a different color and consistency. Most often, a woman visually notices a white, cheesy discharge, reminiscent of a characteristic sign of thrush, but sometimes the vaginal discharge acquires a putrid odor and is greenish-yellow in color. This indicates the specific nature of the pathogen and requires immediate medical consultation;
- swelling and redness of the genitals- patients often notice hyperemia and swelling of the labia and clitoris, which become more sensitive and cause discomfort to the woman.
Acute vaginitis during pregnancy is accompanied by severe symptoms, which should force the patient to contactfor professional help. This will help protect your child frompossible negative consequences.
Causes and types of vaginitis during pregnancy
Inflammation of the mucous membranes of the vagina is usually of an infectious nature. This is made possible thanks tovaginal dysbiosis, which often accompanies period pregnancy. Hormonal changes and high loads on all organs of the expectant mother cause a decrease in the body's defenses, which provokes infectious and inflammatoryprocess. In this case, the causative agent of the pathology can act asbacterial flora that entered the body from the outside during sexual intercourse or through everyday life and constitutes the normal microflora of the vagina. The most likely infectious agents of colpitis in pregnant women include streptococci, fungi of the genus Candida, Escherichia coli, trichomonas, ureaplasma, mycoplasma, etc.
Interestingly, depending on the cause of development The disease may have different symptoms and manifestations:
- candidiasis colpitis - accompanied by abundant curdled discharge and severe itching of the genitals, which manifests itself even at rest;
- emphysematous colpitis- very common type vaginitis specifically in pregnant women. Pathologyaccompanied by the formation of small watery blisters on the surface of the mucous membranes of the genital organs. This formcolpitis goes away on its own 2-3 weeks after childbirth;
- trichomonas colpitis- a very dangerous form of pathology, developing when trichomonas enter the vaginalWednesday. Infection occurs during sexual intercourse or through the use of personal hygiene items shared with the carrier.(towel, washcloth, etc.). Manifests characteristicputrefactive discharge with a sharp unpleasant smell.
Accompanying conditions for the development of colpitis inpregnant women, in addition to decreased immunity, may become allergic reactions, vaginal microtraumas, non-compliancepersonal hygiene, presence of chronic diseases.
Colpitis during pregnancy: consequences for the child
Inflammation of the mucous membranes of the vagina poses a threat not only to the health of the expectant mother, but also to the baby.The ascending route of infection can lead tosuch pregnancy abnormalities as polyhydramnios,premature birth and contamination of amniotic fluid. SpecialVaginitis poses a significant danger during childbirth, whenthe baby passes through the infected maternal birth canal. IN at this point there is a high probability of infection newborn
Interestingly, colpitis after pregnancy can go away on its own, but this happens relatively rarely. The development of colpitis after childbirth is most often provokedinjury to the vaginal membranes during delivery.Due to this fact, doctors recommend refraining fromsexual activity in the first weeks after childbirth. Breaking this bana woman increases the risk of developing colpitis after childbirth.
Treatment of colpitis during pregnancy
Diagnosis of the disease involves standard gynecological examination and performing colposcopy. This the research method makes it possible to visualizesurface of the mucous membrane of the vaginal walls and evaluate themstate. During the examination, the doctor takes a smear for analysis. The study of biological material is carried out using bacterioscopic and bacteriological methods.
Colpitis (vaginitis) is a common gynecological disease. According to statistics, it is diagnosed in 60% of women who consult a gynecologist. Colpitis during pregnancy is also a common occurrence. But even in this situation, you should not panic; you must follow the clear recommendations of your doctor.
is an inflammatory process that develops on the vaginal mucosa. In addition, foci of inflammation often simultaneously affect the mucous membrane of the external genitalia (), the vaginal part of the cervix and the upper epithelium of the urethra.
Most often, the disease is accompanied by copious vaginal discharge with an intense, pungent odor and swelling of the mucous membrane.
Reference! Interestingly, there has not been a direct relationship between the duration of pregnancy and the development of the disease.
In other words, colpitis can occur at any stage of pregnancy. But the greatest risk to the fetus occurs in cases where the inflammation process develops shortly before the onset of labor, in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Reasons for the development of pathology during pregnancy
The development of colpitis during pregnancy is often due to a natural decrease in immunity. As a result female body becomes more vulnerable to infection.
In addition, during pregnancy, the hormonal balance changes significantly. Against this background, the vaginal environment changes from acidic to natural. As a result, the risk of development, growth and reproduction of opportunistic and pathogenic microorganisms increases. Additionally There are a number of factors that increase the risk of developing colpitis during pregnancy:
- violation of intimate hygiene rules;
- long-term antibiotic therapy;
- hormone therapy;
- microtrauma of the vagina;
- allergies to panty liners, soap, gel, condoms;
- diseases of the endocrine system;
- serious errors in the diet;
- chronic cystitis;
- untreated.
Colpitis can be caused by diseases such as trichomoniasis or chlamydia.
Clinical manifestations
Symptoms of colpitis in pregnant women are no different from those in women in normal condition. In the acute form of the disease, the clinical picture is more vivid and it is impossible not to notice such signs. For chronic colpitis clinical manifestations may be blurry or completely absent. Common symptoms of the disease include the following:
Often during pregnancy, colpitis develops under the influence of fungi of the genus Candida. In this case, vaginal discharge acquires a sour odor and White color. This disease has a name -. In this case, additional symptoms may appear, such as pain when urinating or vaginal dryness.
Diagnostic methods
First of all, before making a diagnosis of colpitis, the gynecologist collects anamnesis and conducts a visual examination using mirrors. Then the pregnant patient may be prescribed the following types of examination:
- Taking smears to determine the vaginal microflora.
- Collection of vaginal secretions for bacteriological examination. During the analysis, the causative agent of the infection and its resistance to antibiotics are determined.
- Ultrasound of the pelvic organs. The study allows you to determine the condition of the uterus and the completeness of the blood supply to the placenta.
- examination to detect sexually transmitted infections.
Additionally, the woman must take a blood and urine test.
Attention! In certain cases, when the pathogen cannot be determined in any other way, a blood test is performed to detect antibodies to TORCH infections.
Therapy methods
Treatment of colpitis during pregnancy is carried out regardless of the period. First, a woman must go on a certain diet. It is based on avoiding eating sweet, salty, hot and spicy foods. In addition, during the entire course of therapy, the pregnant patient must refuse sexual intercourse.
The specific drug, as well as the treatment regimen for colpitis in a pregnant woman, is chosen by the attending physician, based on the results of the tests performed. The general treatment regimen is as follows:
- Antifungal drugs. This treatment is prescribed if colpitis is caused by fungi of the genus Candida.
- Antibacterial drugs. The choice of a specific medication depends on the type of pathogen and the length of pregnancy of the woman.
- Antiviral drugs. They are prescribed in cases where colpitis is provoked by a virus.
Important! It should be remembered that both sexual partners must undergo treatment, otherwise relapse of the disease cannot be avoided.
Throughout the entire therapeutic course, a woman must follow a daily routine, get enough sleep and take a complex of vitamins to strengthen the body’s defenses.
Why is colpitis dangerous?
Treatment of colpitis during pregnancy should be carried out in mandatory. Otherwise, the disease can harm not only the woman, but also the child. Complications of untreated colpitis in pregnant women may be as follows::
- endometriosis;
- cervicitis;
- chorioamnionitis (infection of amniotic fluid and placenta);
- intrauterine damage to the fetus;
- rupture of perineal tissue during labor;
- fetoplacental insufficiency (impaired blood supply to the placenta);
- polyhydramnios;
- premature birth.
Also infection can occur during the passage of the child through the birth canal. Which is fraught with the appearance of various infections in the baby, including pneumonia.
Coping with colpitis during pregnancy is not easy. Due to the fact that not all methods and drugs are allowed for a woman at this stage. But by following all the doctor’s recommendations and not practicing self-medication, you can forget about this disease once and for all. A modern methods Treatments will help cope with colpitis without harming the baby.
During pregnancy, a woman is most vulnerable to disease and infection. This is due to the fact that the body experiences enormous stress and undergoes changes. But, unfortunately, treatment is complicated by the fact that most medicines are prohibited. Therefore, it is important to carefully monitor your health while expecting a baby.
What are the risks of identified colpitis during pregnancy?
Decreased immunity and hormonal changes contribute to the occurrence of inflammatory diseases - vaginitis (colpitis).
Currently, this is a common problem, although for a couple of decades it was observed in only 20% of women giving birth.
What is it? What are the causes and symptoms? How is the treatment carried out?
What is vaginitis during pregnancy
Vaginitis during pregnancy is a large group of inflammatory diseases of the vaginal mucosa, of a polyethylological nature.
There are several types:
- Bacterial.
- Candida.
- Trichomonas nonspecific.
Bacterial
Bacterial vaginitis is a pathological infectious and inflammatory process of the vaginal mucosa. Occurs due to a disturbance in the composition of the microflora, but is not associated with infections that are sexually transmitted, with protozoan microorganisms and fungal infections.
There is a decrease in lactobacilli in the vagina, the amount of lactic acid drops sharply, which causes the proliferation of opportunistic microflora. This contributes to further inhibition of lactic acid bacteria. As a result, lactobacilli die or remain in minimal quantities, which allows microorganisms to develop.
Despite the high level of development of medicine, treatment of colpitis is not easy.
The peculiarity of the disease is that, occurring unnoticed and accumulating in the mucous membranes, opportunistic microflora contribute to various inflammations of the woman’s pelvis.
Causes of bacterial vaginitis:
- decreased immunity;
- diseases of the endocrine system;
- diseases of the genital organs;
- insufficient hygiene;
- anemia.
Symptoms:
- gray or even green leucorrhoea from the vagina. Foamy and sticky;
- fishy smell, intensifies during sexual intercourse;
- pain in the lower abdomen for no reason;
- hypertonicity of the uterus;
- with advanced disease, a burning sensation occurs during urination;
- pain during sexual intercourse.
During pregnancy, the course of the disease can occur:
- asymptomatic, which makes it difficult to detect the disease;
- with copious discharge. It is difficult to diagnose because during pregnancy the amount of discharge increases due to natural causes.
When a disease is detected, the doctor monitors the dynamics and, if necessary, prescribes treatment.
Candida
Vaginal candidiasis or thrush often occurs in women. The source of the disease is a fungus from the genus Candida. In pregnant women, the risk of developing pathology increases several times. The main causes of thrush:
- unfavorable vaginal microflora;
- constant stress;
- hormonal disorders;
- improper treatment with antibiotics;
- decreased immunity.
Signs:
- white, cheesy discharge;
- itching in the vagina;
- pain during intercourse (not always).
The danger of thrush is that it is often asymptomatic. The severe form is accompanied by leucorrhoea and then the disease is detected. During pregnancy, candidiasis is dangerous for the mother and baby, even causing miscarriage. Therefore, it is important to monitor and notice any changes in condition.
One of the reasons for the development of colpitis is lack of hygiene, so every woman should regularly wash herself and change her underwear.
Trichomonas nonspecific
Trichomonas colpitis is an acute form of inflammation of the vagina due to the simplest single-celled microorganisms. Mixed infection is more common.
There are two forms:
- Spicy. It proceeds rapidly with vivid symptoms.
- Chronic. An asymptomatic form that gradually disrupts the function of the reproductive organs, affecting the uterus and appendages, and is often the cause of infertility.
Causes:
- unprotected sexual intercourse;
- infection through the personal belongings of an affected person (towel, washcloth, brush);
- reduced immunity;
- frequent change of sexual partners;
- pregnancy;
- ignoring hygiene;
- presence of sexually transmitted infections.
Symptoms:
- Regular discharge from the genital tract. Foamy yellow or green. In the chronic form, the discharge is scanty and gray in color.
- Burning and itching, pain during sexual intercourse.
- Unpleasant smell.
- Genital discomfort.
With Trichomonas colpitis, vulvovaginitis often develops. There is burning and redness of the vagina.
This form of the disease is the most dangerous. A woman can become infertile and become a carrier of the infection, infecting sexual partners. If the pathology manifests itself during pregnancy, then there is a high risk of miscarriage, infection of the child, premature birth or stillbirth.
Symptoms and manifestations
Colpitis is often asymptomatic and already in the later stages pain in the lower abdomen begins to appear during coitus.
Main signs of the disease:
- discomfort in the vagina;
- discharge from the genitals. Foamy, curd, depending on the type of vaginitis. Various shades from gray to green, with thrush - white;
- unpleasant odor from the vagina, which intensifies during sexual intercourse;
- discomfort in the lower abdomen;
- burning, itching;
- pain during coitus.
The insidiousness of colpitis is that pain and vivid symptoms appear too late. Therefore, you need to regularly monitor your health and notice the slightest changes.
Danger and consequences for the fetus
Diseases of the genital organs pose a threat not only to the woman, but also to the child she is carrying.
In the early stages
The first trimester is an important time. The formation and development of the fetus and placenta occurs. During this period, any negative impact can negatively affect the child.
Threat of vaginitis for the baby:
- hypoxia;
- defects and developmental deviations;
- lack of nutrients;
- improper formation of the placenta;
- miscarriage;
- infection of the amniotic fluid;
- child infection.
In the later stages
In late pregnancy, colpitis carries the following risks for the baby:
- premature birth;
- placental abruption;
- hypoxia;
- fetal infection;
- stillbirth;
- lack of amniotic fluid;
- umbilical cord entanglement due to polyhydramnios;
- hypoxia.
Treatment of vaginitis
Treatment of colpitis should only occur under the guidance of a doctor. The Trichomonas form requires hospital observation. Self-administration of medications can provoke the progression of colpitis.
How to treat
During pregnancy, many medications are prohibited, which complicates treatment. To combat colpitis use:
- antibiotics;
- ointments;
- physiotherapy;
- herbal decoctions;
- baths with an acidic environment.
The woman is prescribed a certain diet. Treatment using folk remedies is prescribed because approved medications are not effective enough and therefore a set of measures is required. The most commonly prescribed drugs are Pimafucin and Nystatin, vaginal and rectal suppositories.
Tactics to combat vaginitis:
- Antibacterial therapy, if bacterial form.
- Eliminating fungi for thrush.
- Eliminate viruses when infected.
- Special diet: no fried, smoked, salted or spicy foods.
- Avoid sexual intercourse until complete recovery.
- Treatment for both partners.
- Strict daily routine, strong physical activity and fatigue are not allowed.
- Taking vitamins to strengthen the immune system.
Is it possible to replace it with folk remedies?
It is impossible to completely replace treatment with folk remedies alone!
Combining activities is allowed: taking medications and using herbal baths.
Recipes for decoctions for taking a bath:
- Pour a couple of tablespoons of chamomile and calendula into a liter of water, cook in a water bath for 15-20 minutes, then cool.
- Pour a liter of boiling water over the coltsfoot and leave for about an hour, then you can use it.
- Oak bark decoction - add two tablespoons of water and cook in a water bath for half an hour, then cool slightly and use.
Before using decoctions, you should definitely consult a doctor. Self-medication is not allowed!
Duration of treatment
The duration of treatment depends on the form of the disease. On average, this is at least two to three weeks and then a period of prevention. Sometimes the period reaches several months before complete recovery.
Reasons for recurrence
Colpitis often reoccurs. This happens because after elimination, the woman remains a carrier of the infection for some time. If prevention methods are not followed, the disease develops again. That is why it is important to carefully monitor genital hygiene and follow the rules recommended by the doctor.
How is childbirth carried out?
Childbirth takes place either naturally or by caesarean section if indicated or with a severe form of vaginitis requiring urgent delivery. The doctor must sanitize the birth canal so that the child does not become infected when born.
After childbirth, there is a risk of developing colpitis again due to a sharp release of hormones, so medical supervision is mandatory.
One of the golden rules of health is hygiene. This is especially true for the genitals. Colpitis is a disease that can cause miscarriage, infertility or stillbirth, as well as many gynecological problems. Therefore, a woman must carefully monitor her health, especially during pregnancy.
Useful video
Colpitis often develops in women during pregnancy. The disease is diagnosed in 75-80% of cases. The likelihood of developing inflammation does not depend on the duration of pregnancy. The high risk of infection persists throughout the entire period of gestation. The greatest danger to the unborn child is posed by a disease that occurs in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Colpitis during pregnancy due to weakened immunity is much more severe, and therefore poses a threat to the normal development of the fetus.
Toxins released by pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms cause inflammation that affects the uterus and birth canal. A child can get a “bad” disease not only in the womb, but also during delivery. The consequences of infectious infection are manifested by allergies, encephalopathy, and in the woman herself - endometritis, secondary infertility.
Causes of colpitis during pregnancy
The infection easily penetrates the mother's body, all of whose immune mechanisms are aimed at maintaining the life and development of the fetus. Due to hormonal changes, an alkaline environment is formed in the vagina, favorable for the proliferation and colonization of bacteria.
Predisposing factors to the development of infectious vaginitis in expectant mothers:
- early onset of sexual activity (14-16 years);
- chronic STIs;
- promiscuity;
- trauma to the vaginal mucosa (as a result of rough sex, medical procedures, surgical treatment);
- long-term antibiotic therapy.
If a woman leads healthy image life, lives with one partner, maintains intimate hygiene, undergoes routine examinations by a gynecologist, then the risk of developing colpitis during pregnancy is minimal.
Any discomfort in the vagina, discomfort during sexual intercourse, or discharge should be a reason for a comprehensive diagnosis.
Symptoms of colpitis in pregnant women
Symptoms of colpitis differ depending on the type of pathogen and the stage of the disease. In the acute form, the clinical manifestations of the infection are pronounced, in the chronic form they are hidden, felt only during periods of relapse.
Type of disease | Type of pathogen | Symptoms |
---|---|---|
Nonspecific colpitis | ||
Candidiasis (thrush) | Candida fungus | Curdled white discharge, unbearable itching, redness of the genitals |
Bacterial | Gardnerella, Escherichia coli, Proteus | Mucus discharge with an unpleasant odor, pain in the lower abdomen |
Viral | Herpes, HPV | Foamy, foul-smelling discharge, erosions or “warts” on the vaginal mucosa |
Specific colpitis | ||
Gonorrhea | Gonococci | Discharge with pus, discomfort and pain in the vaginal area, pain during intercourse |
Chlamydia | Chlamydia | Thick milky discharge, burning sensation in the vagina |
Trichomoniasis | Trichomonas | Discharge with the smell of rotten fish, burning and pain when urinating |
The problem is that colpitis during pregnancy is caused not by one, but by several infectious agents. When examining a vaginal smear, an association of microorganisms is revealed, and in some of them, for example, in Candida fungi, more dangerous, pathogenic bacteria - ureaplasma and mycoplasma - can exist latently. On early This form of vaginitis is very dangerous for the child: hidden infections can cause miscarriage and affect the formation of the nervous system.
Clinic depending on the form of colpitis
In the acute form, the listed symptoms are noticeable for a long time and do not go away on their own. In addition to discharge with an unpleasant odor, the pregnant woman experiences discomfort when walking, constant burning and itching not only in the vagina, but also in the area of the inner thighs and buttocks.
In the chronic course of colpitis, the clinical signs are blurred, but even with a mild cold, a relapse can occur. The infection makes itself felt by redness of the genitals and scanty yellowish discharge.
Treatment methods for colpitis in expectant mothers
Treatment of the disease during pregnancy is somewhat difficult. The main method of destroying infectious agents is antibiotic therapy. Most antibacterial drugs have side effects on the fetus. Long-term use of antibiotics provokes the addiction of pathogenic microorganisms and the further spread of infection.
When choosing treatment tactics, the doctor’s primary task is not to harm the child, so the safest combination of medications is selected. If the disease is mild, then local procedures and medications are limited. You can make vaginal baths with medicinal herbs (chamomile, oak bark, calendula), put candles at night, for example, Terzhinan.
Systemic therapy
In the acute form, systemic therapy is carried out, aimed not only at destroying foreign microflora, but also at normalizing the protective environment of the vagina, eliminating pain, and relieving discomfort associated with inflammation of the genital organs.
The standard course during pregnancy is prescribed only from the 2nd trimester and includes several types of drugs:
- antifungal (for thrush) - Nystatin, Pimafucin;
- antiprotozoal (for trichomoniasis, chlamydia) – Metronidazole (topically);
- antibacterial (for nonspecific colpitis) - Erythromycin;
- to restore intestinal microflora - Bifidoback, Linex.
The combination of medications, dosage and duration are selected by the doctor. In this case, both partners must undergo a course of treatment for colpitis. To restore the natural microflora, it is useful for pregnant women to consume fermented milk products, eat lingonberries, and sour berries.