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Thread: Recurring yeast infections may be Cytolytic Vaginosis

  1. #1
    Senior Member Pippi_Hicks's Avatar
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    Default Recurring yeast infections may be Cytolytic Vaginosis

    After dealing month after month with what appeared to be recurring yeast infections, I finally discovered the cruel truth that you can have an abundance of the good bacteria in your vag... and it presents itself almost exactly like a yeast infection! So you actually make everything worse when you try to treat it like a yeast infection. I personally feel like this is some sort of sick joke from nature, but here's more info:

    WHAT IS IT?
    Cytolytic vaginosis is a vaginal condition that involves an overgrowth of lactobacillus bacteria.
    Lactobacilli are a normal part of the vaginal environment.
    Cytolytic vaginosis is not an infection. It is also not a sexually transmitted illness.

    WHAT CAUSES IT?
    No one knows for sure. It appears to be a pH problem that causes a disruption in the natural
    balance of bacteria found in the vagina. This leads to an overgrowth of lactobacillus, which
    produces acids that cause vaginal irritation. A change in your vaginal pH may be provoked by,
    but not limited to, the following:
    • Treatment of vaginal discharge with antibiotics or antifungal medications
    • Residue from soap or vaginal cleansers
    • Sensitivity to chemicals or perfumes in personal care products
    • Sensitivity to latex or lubricants
    • The pH of your partner’s semen

    WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
    The symptoms of cytolytic vaginosis are often confused with those of a yeast infection or
    bacterial vaginosis. Symptoms may be worse during the second half of your menstrual cycle.
    Any of the following may be present:
    • Itching and redness of the vagina or skin outside the vagina (the vulva).
    • Burning of the vulva which may be worse with urination. Symptoms may mimic the
    burning associated with a urinary tract infection.
    • White or yellowish vaginal discharge.
    • Discomfort with intercourse or soreness following intercourse.

    HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?
    Your medical provider will perform a pelvic exam and take a sample of your vaginal discharge to
    examine under the microscope. The presence of characteristic cellular changes and excessive
    lactobacilli help to confirm the diagnosis. Testing will also show a low vaginal pH.

    WHAT IS THE TREATMENT?
    Restoring the vaginal equilibrium will decrease lactobacilli to normal levels and provide
    symptom relief.
    Baking soda treatments are used to increase vaginal pH:
    - Baking soda soak: Dissolve 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda in a bath of 1-2 inches of
    warm water. Soak twice a day for 15-20 minutes.
    - Baking soda douche: Dissolve 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda in 4 cups of warm
    water, or purchase an over-the-counter baking soda douche. Douche once daily for
    7-14 days or twice weekly for 2 weeks.
    - Baking soda paste: Make a watery paste with baking soda, and apply daily to the
    skin outside the vagina to relieve any irritation.

    - Stop tampon use (because menstrual flow increases vaginal pH).
    - Avoid soap in the genital area. Wash with plain water. If you need soap, use a pHbalanced unscented bar soap, such as Olay or Dove. Avoid liquid soaps as they are
    more concentrated.
    - Avoid hygiene sprays and douches, as well as scented products like toilet paper, pads,
    and tampons.
    - Change out of wet clothing (eg. swimsuits, exercise clothing) as soon as possible.
    - Avoid tight clothing that reduces air flow to the vulva.
    - Wear cotton underwear. Sleeping without underwear may also help.
    Consult your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve within 2-3 weeks of treatment.

    (Source: http://www.students.vcu.edu/health/d...0Vaginosis.pdf)
    -----

    I've read a bunch of posts from other women on different forums and here's my experience:
    - Using a gentle soap works really well for me.
    - Unscented pads were helpful in the beginning of dealing with this and now I can wear tampons, but I try to avoid them at the end of my period when my flow is very light. When on cam during this time I stick a round makeup sponge inside to absorb any blood. (Wet the sponge first then squeeze out any water, wash it very well with gentle soap after your shift and let air dry. It can be reused during the light flow days of ONE cycle, use a new one for your next period.)
    - One tip I found in the forums: drink milk. I don't know why, but milk helps. (Apologies to any women who are lactose intolerant.)
    "I for one welcome our new porn star overlords" - Cammi

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  3. #2
    God/dess Smurfette's Avatar
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    Default Re: Recurring yeast infections may be Cytolytic Vaginosis

    Thanks Pippi! This is really useful information. I seem to get a mild YI at some point every month, and then a more severe one every 3 months or so. If I could make them go away I'd be so relieved. The next time I get one I'll schedule an appointment with my Dr. and get it checked out. I would hate to think that what I'm doing to treat it is actually making it WORSE. Ugh.

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