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DESCRIPTION
Post-menopausal Vaginitis (Atrophic Vaginitis, Urogenital Vaginitis) is an infection or inflammation of the vagina caused by lowered estrogen levels that upset the vagina's normal hormone and pH balance. Postmenopausal vaginitis is not contagious.
An estimated 10 to 40 percent of post-menopausal women have symptoms of atrophic vaginitis. Despite the prevalence of symptoms only 20 to 25 percent of women with symptoms seek medical care for their vaginitis, making this an often overlooked and under diagnosed condition.
ESTROGEN LEVELS & VAGINAL CHANGES
Throughout a woman's life cycle, the vaginal epithelium undergoes changes in response to the level of circulating estrogen. Stimulated by maternal estrogen, the vaginal epithelium is rugated and rich in glycogen in the newborn. During childhood, the epithelium remains thin until puberty, when it again thickens as a result of estrogen stimulation. Estrogen stimulation produces copious amounts of glycogen. Döderlein's lactobacilli depend on glycogen from sloughed vaginal cells. Lactic acid produced by these bacteria lowers vaginal pH levels to 3.5 to 4.5; this is essential for the body's natural defense against vaginal and urinary tract infections. Increased vaginal pH levels predispose the vagina to infection by streptococci, staphylococci, coliforms and diphtheroid. After menopause, circulating estrogen levels (mainly estradiol), are dramatically reduced from greater than 120 pg per mL to around 18 pg per mL. Numerous cytologic transformations follow estrogen reduction, including proliferation of connective tissue, fragmentation of elastin and hyalinization of collagen. These changes may result in granulation, fissures, ecchymoses, telangiectases and ulcerations. Postmenopausal changes in tissue composition are not limited to the genital tract but also include the urinary tract because of the shared common embryologic origin. Vaginal and urethral epithelia are estrogen dependent and adversely change in an estrogen-deprived environment.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Severity of the following symptoms varies greatly among women and from time to time in the same woman:
- Redness, pain and itching around the genital area. Vulvar pruritus (vulvar itching), Dyspareunia (Pelvic Pain)
- Vaginal dryness. A lack of natural vaginal lubrication is an early sign of hormone insufficiency. Over time, the lack of vaginal lubrication often results in sexual dysfunction and associated emotional distress.
- Vaginal discharge that is usually thin, whitish-yellowish and sometimes tinged with blood. It may have a strong odor. Burning Leukkorrhea.
- Feeling of pressure.
- Discomfort during sexual intercourse.
- Change in vaginal color from pale pink to red.
- Urinary dysuria, hematuria, increased frequency of urination, urinary tract infection (UTI), stress incontinence.
Urethritis (Urethra Infection, UTI)
Cystitis (Bladder Infection)
Incontinence, Stress
Incontinence, Urge
All atrophic vaginal symptoms can be made worse (exacerbated) by a simultaneous infection of candidiasis, trichomoniasis, or bacterial vaginosis.
CAUSES
Micro-organisms that inhabit the vagina cause infection when the normal physiology of the vagina is disturbed. After menopause, the estrogen level that helped maintain a normal vaginal environment decreases, leaving the vagina more vulnerable to infection. The following conditions increase the likelihood of postmenopausal vaginitis.
General poor health. A Weakened immune system.
Hot weather, non-ventilating clothing, especially underwear, or any other conditions that increases genital moisture, warmth and darkness. These foster the growth of germs.
Poor hygiene. Body cleanliness is very important, especially if you are overweight. Regular bathing with mild soap goes a long way towards fighting infections, controlling the growth of germs and preventing future infections.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Menopause is the leading cause of decreased levels of circulating estrogen, therefore it is the etiology of almost all cases of atrophic vaginitis. In pre-menopausal women, disruption of estrogen levels can cause atrophic vaginitis.
Natural estrogen deficiency before menopause.
Decreased Ovarian Functioning.
Cancer Therapy - Radiation / Chemotherapy.
Oophorectomy / Surgical removal of the ovaries.
Postpartum loss of placental estrogen.
Elevated prolactin level during lactation.
Illness that has lowered resistance.
HIV infection or other immune disorder. Medications containing anti-estrogen properties:
- Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)
- Danazol (Danocrine)
- Medroxyprogesterone (Provera)
- Leuprolide (Lupron)
- Nafarelin (Synarel)
Cigarette smoking.
Vaginal nulliparity (not given birth vaginally). Infrequent bathing or unsanitary living conditions.
Diabetes mellitus.
Complete cessation of sexual activity. Milder atrophy occurs in postmenopausal women who participate in sexual activity, have higher androgen levels and have not undergone vaginal surgery.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Keep the genital area clean. Use plain unscented soap.
Take showers rather than tub baths.
Wear cotton panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch.
Don't sit around in wet clothing, especially a wet bathing suit.
After urination or bowel movements, cleanse by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus).
Lose weight if obese.
Avoid douches, vaginal deodorants and bubble baths.
If you have diabetes, adhere strictly to your treatment program.
You may choose to seek medical advice about replacement estrogen therapy . Be sure to do research about the pros and cons of replacement therapy before choosing this option.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Usually curable in 10 days with treatment.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Secondary bacterial infection in any pelvic organ.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
DIAGNOSIS
Diagnostic tests may include laboratory blood studies, examination of vagina and culture of the vaginal discharge. Pap smear, pelvic examination and biopsy (to rule out cancer).
Laboratory Diagnosis of Atrophic Vaginitis
Laboratory Test Positive Indication Wet preparation/cytologic smear of cells from upper one third of vagina Atrophic cytologic changes including increase in proportion of parabasal cells Ultrasonography of uterine lining Uterine lining demonstrating endometrial thinness between 4 and 5 mm Serum hormone concentration Low level of circulating estrogen <= 4.5 Vaginal pH pH elevation above normal postmenopausal levels (pH exceeding 5) Microscopy Elimination of diagnosis of trichomoniasis, candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis
A physical examination if performed and a health history is discussed by your health care provider. Discussion should include the use of any products that may aggravate existing symptoms, such as perfumes, powders, soaps, deodorants, panty liners, spermicides, and vaginal lubricants. These often contain irritant compounds. Tight fitting clothing and long term use of perineal pads or synthetic materials can worsen atrophic symptoms.
On examination, several signs of vaginal atrophy will be evident.
Genital:
- Atrophic vaginal epithelium appears pale, smooth and shiny.
- Often, inflammation with patchy erythema, petechiae and increased friability may be present.
- External genitalia should be examined for:
- Diminished or loss of skin/tissue elasticity.
- Loss of turgor of the skin.
- Sparsity of pubic hair.
- Dryness of labia.
- Vulvar dermatoses.
- Vulvar lesions.
- Fusion of the labia minora.
- Introital stenosis to a width less then two fingers and decreased vaginal depth will be apparent; if these conditions are not diagnosed before insertion of the speculum, the pelvic examination will cause considerable pain.
- Friable and poorly rugated vaginal epithelium is more prone to traumatic damage.
- Ecchymoses and minor lacerations at peri-introital and posterior fourchette may also recur after coitus or during a speculum examination.
- Vaginal examination or sexual activity can result in vaginal bleeding or spotting.
- Rectocele, pelvic organ prolapse.
Urethral:
- Vulvar signs of irritation caused by urinary incontinence may also be identified on pelvic examination.
- Cystocele.
- Urethral polyps.
- Urethral caruncle.
- Eversion of urethral mucosa.
- Ecchymoses.
- Minor lacerations of peri-introital and posterior fourchette.
TREATMENT
ESTROGEN REPLACEMENT THERAPY
Estrogen replacement therapy is the most common choice of treatment for atrophic vaginitis due to the lack of circulating, natural estrogen. Estrogen replacement restores normal pH levels and thickens and revascularizes the vaginal epithelium. Adequate estrogen replacement therapy increases the number of superficial cells. Estrogen therapy may alleviate existing symptoms or even prevent development of urogenital symptoms if initiated at the time of menopause.
Contraindications to estrogen therapy include estrogen-sensitive tumors, end-stage liver failure and a past history of estrogen-related thromboembolization. Adverse effects of estrogen therapy include breast tenderness, vaginal bleeding and a slight increase in the risk of an estrogen-dependent neoplasm. An increased risk of developing endometrial carcinoma and hyperplasia is conclusively related to unopposed exogenous estrogen intake. Factors that determine the degree of increased risk include duration, dosage, and method of estrogen delivery. Routes of administration include, oral, transdermal and intravaginal. Dose frequency may be continuous, cyclic or symptomatic. The amount of estrogen and the duration of time required to eliminate symptoms depend greatly on the degree of vaginal atrophy and will vary from woman to woman.
Additional advantages of systemic administration of estrogen include a decrease in postmenopausal bone loss and alleviation of vasomotor dysfunction (hot flushes). Standard dosages of systemic estrogen, however, may not eliminate the symptoms of atrophic vaginitis in 10 to 25 percent of women. Systemic estrogen in higher dosages may be necessary to alleviate symptoms. Some women require co-administration of a vaginal estrogen product that is applied locally. Up to 24 months of therapy may be necessary to totally eradicate dryness; however, some patients do not fully respond even to this treatment regimen.
Transvaginal rings offer convenience, constancy of hormonal concentration in the blood stream and a therapeutic value equivalent to creams without the need for frequent application. Control of hormone dosage is manipulated by changing the surface area of the ring. Atrophic vaginitis symptoms are relieved (with a dosage of 5 to 10 µg per 24 hours) without stimulation of endometrial proliferation, thereby eliminating the need to add opposing progestogen to the regimen. Rings may be removed and reinserted by most patients with little difficulty and can be worn during sexual activity.
MOISTURIZERS & LUBRICANTS
Moisturizers and lubricants may be used in along with estrogen replacement therapy or as alternative treatments. Some women choose not to take hormone replacement, or they may have medical contraindications or experience hormonal side effects. Women who wish to avoid using estrogen should not use moisturizers that contain ginseng because they may have estrogenic properties. Moisturizers help maintain natural secretions and coital comfort. The length of effectiveness is generally less than 24 hours.
SEXUAL ACTIVITY
Sexual activity is a healthful prescription for postmenopausal women who have a substantially estrogenized vaginal epithelium. It has been shown to encourage vaginal elasticity and pliability, and the lubricative response to sexual stimulation. Women who participate in sexual activity report fewer symptoms of atrophic vaginitis and, on vaginal examination, have less evidence of stenosis and shrinkage in comparison with sexually inactive women. A negative relationship exists between coital activity, including masturbation, and symptoms of vaginal atrophy.
Because no positive relationship has been shown to exist between estrogen levels and sexual activity, coitus is not hypothesized to restore or maintain estrogen in postmenopausal women. The existence of a positive relationship between coital activities and both gonadotropins and androgens indicates the importance of these compounds to healthy vaginal epithelium when estrogen levels are decreased. All sexually active women should take appropriate precautions against sexually transmitted diseases, including the human immunodeficiency virus.
OTHER HELPFUL TREATMENT SUGGESTIONS
Drug therapy will be directed to the specific organism causing the infection. Your sexual partner may need treatment also. It is best not to do self-treatment for the disorder until the specific cause is determined.
Don't douche unless prescribed for you. If you must douche, avoid sweet smelling douches. If douching provides relief, you can douche with plain water, water with 2 acidophilus capsules added, or plain yogurt. You can also add 1 teaspoon of fresh garlic juice.
If urinating causes burning, urinate while bathing or urinate through a toilet paper roll or plastic cup with the bottom cut out or pour a cup of warm water over the genital area while urinating. This prevents urine from stinging inflamed skin.
Because cabbage leaves are used to treat sore nipples, mastitis, and many other kinds of "itis," Cabbage leaves can be placed on top of a maxi pad to treat vaginitis. You can experience complete relief from burning and itching within a couple of hours.
MEDICATION
Topical or oral estrogen or both may be prescribed. If you use a cream or suppository, use a small sanitary pad to protect clothing. Keep creams or suppositories in the refrigerator. After treatment, you may want to keep a refill of the medication so you can begin treatment quickly if the infection recurs. Follow the prescription directions carefully. The use of these products increases the body's need for vitamin B-6. Vaginal absorption of synthetic estrogen may be dangerous to some women and may produce side effects. Natural progesterone cream applied to the vagina is beneficial for atrophic vaginitis.
Do not use corticosteroids or oral contraceptives until your condition improves. Oral contraceptives can upset the balance of microorganisms in the body.
Other creams, ointments or suppositories to suppress the organisms causing the infection may be prescribed.
ACTIVITY
Avoid overexertion, heat and excessive sweating. Delay sexual relations until you are well. Keep clean and dry. Wear white cotton underwear which absorbs moisture and allows air to circulate. Avoid tight clothing and synthetic fabrics. Change into dry clothing as soon as possible after swimming. Do not spend prolonged periods of time in a wet bathing suit.
DIET
No special diet. However, you should watch your diet and the foods you consume. Some foods can influence organism growth and your body's ability to fight an infection.
- Eat plain yogurt that contains live yogurt cultures, or apply yogurt directly to the vagina. This can help fight infection and soothe inflammation. Also consume brown rice, millet, and acidophilus.
- Consume fiber daily. Oat bran is a good source.
- Eat a diet that is fruit-free, sugar-free, and yeast-free. Avoid aged cheeses, alcohol, chocolate, dried fruits, fermented foods, all grains containing gluten (wheat, oats, rye, and barley), ham, homey, nut butters, pickles, raw mushrooms, soy sauce, sprouts, sugar in any form, vinegar, and all yeast products. Also eliminate citrus and acidic fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons, tomatoes, pineapple, and limes) from you diet until the inflammation subsides. Then add them back slowly.
Nutrients Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Very Important Acidophilus As directed on label. 3 times daily, with meals. To replenish normal healthy bacteria. Lactobacillus Acidophilus Kosher Liquid, All Natural, Vegetarian Medium, Lactose Free Apple Banana flavor, 16 fl. oz., Acidophilus Powder, Non-Dairy, 4 oz. Bulk, Acidophilus 3 Billion, NOW Foods, 90 Tabs Biotin 300 mcg daily, 3 times daily. Inhibits yeast. Biotin Co-Enzyme, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 1000 mcg, 100 Sublingual Lozenges Essential fatty acids As directed on label. Aids healing. Ultimate Oil, Essential Fatty Acids, Nature's Secret, 90 Softgels, Flax Seed Oil Super, Cold-Pressed, 100% Organic (20%) Lignan, Nature's Way, 16 fl. oz. Garlic Fresh: 1-2 cloves
with meals 3 times daily
Kyolic: 1 capsule
with meals 3 times daily.Acts as a natural antibiotic and has antifungal properties. Odorless Garlic Supplement, NOW Foods, 2500 mg, 250 Softgels Vitamin B complex 50-100 mg daily, 3 times daily with meals. Often deficient in people with vaginitis. Use a high potency formula. Regulates metabolism and promotes good health. Ultimate B (Vitamin B Complex Formula), Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs Yeast-Gard from Lake Consumer Products As directed on label. Excellent antifungal agent. Reduces pain. Yeast Cleanse, Candistroy & Probiotic Rebuilder, 2 Part Program, Includes 2 Free CDs, 2 Bottles, Nature's Secret, 90 Tabs Each Helpful Colloidal silver Take orally or apply topically as directed on label. Acts as a natural broad spectrum antibiotic that subdues inflammation and promotes healing. Destroys bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Colloidal Silver Liquid, SilvaSolution, 10 ppm, 16 fl. oz., Colloidal Silver Pump Spray, SilvaSolution, 2 fl. oz. Kyo-Dophilus from Wakunaga Open up 3 capsules and dissolve in 1 quart warm water with 6 drops tea tree oil added to use as a douche. Replenishes friendly bacteria. Gr8-Dophilus Probiotic, NOW Foods, 60 Vcaps L-Isoleucine
And
L-Leucine
And
L-LysineAs directed on label, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B-6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. Good for fighting herpes and for tissue repair and healing of skin lesions. Branched Chain Amino Acids, Free Form, 120 Caps (L-valine, L-leucine, & L-isoleucine), L-Lysine, Pharmaceutical Grade, Stable Tartrate Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps N-A-G from Source Naturals As directed on label. Amino acid compound. Forms the basis of complex molecular structures that are key parts of mucous membrane tissue. N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 90 Caps Oxy C-2 Gel from American Biologics As directed on label. A useful antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. Oxy Boost Plus (Therapeutic Strength), Peter Gilliam's Natural Vitality, 2 oz., Cellfood Oxygen Gel Skin Treatment, 1.7 oz. (50 ml) Vitamin A 50,000 IU daily.
If you are pregnant, do not exceed 10,000 IU daily.Powerful antioxidants that aid in healing. Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 Softgels Vitamin E 400 IU daily.
Can also be applied directly to the affected area.Powerful antioxidants that aid in healing. Vitamin E Cream Skin Nourishment, NOW Foods, 28,000 IU, 4 oz., Vitamin E, 400 IU, 100% Natural, NOW Foods, 100 Gels Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine) 50 mg 3 times daily. Especially important is using estrogen cream for treatment of atrophic vaginitis. Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine), 100 mg, 100 Caps Vitamin C with bioflavonoids 2,000 - 5,000 mg daily, in divided doses. Important immune system stimulant. Necessary for tissue healing. Vitamin C Liquid, w/ Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz., Dynamic Health, Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 Vcaps Vitamin D
With
Calcium
And
Magnesium1,000 mg daily.
1,500 mg daily.
1,000 mg daily.To relieve stress. Women need extra supplements of these nutrients at this time. Coral Calcium (Okinawa) Plus w/ Magnesium & Vitamin D, 100% Natural, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Vcaps Zinc 30 mg daily
Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements.To increase immunity and promote proper utilization of vitamin A. Also reduces severity of herpes outbreaks. Use zinc gluconate lozenges or OptiZinc for best absorption. Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps, Ionic Zinc, 50 mg, 2 fl. oz., Trace Minerals, Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.
Vaginitis Supplements
Information and supplements for vaginitis, inflammation of the vagina.
Tea Tree Oil Suppositories - 6 Count
Tea Tree oil suppositories for vaginal hygiene are recommended for the treatment of vaginal infections and puritis (itching).Lactobacillus Acidophilus Kosher Liquid, All Natural, Vegetarian Medium, Lactose Free Apple Banana, flavor - 16 fl. oz.
Liquid Lactose Free Acidophilus Lactobacillus Plus Bifidus, Bulgaricus & Yucca Schidigera is also fortified with Organic Tahitian Noni Juice.Vitamin E, d-alpha tocopherol 400 IU - 100 Softgels
Vitamin E has potent antioxidant activity, supplies oxygen to the blood, aids in strengthening capillary walls, and plays a beneficial role in cancer and cardiovascular disease prevention, anti-aging benefits, circulation, wound-healing, immune function, nervous system function, PMS, hot flushes, diabetes, vascular disease, eye health, tissue repair, athletic performance, leg cramps, skin and hair health, and alleviating fatigue.Tea Tree Oil Antiseptic Solution (15% Water Soluble) - 2 fl. oz.
Tea Tree Oil Antiseptic Solution can be used for mixing with water for douching, athletes foot, facial problems and bathing.Goldenseal Root Tincture (Hydrastis canadensis), 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Uses include Adrenal Glands; Eye Problems; Fainting; Gallbladder; Gallstones; Nephritis; Pancreatic Disorders; Peritonitis; Poison Ivy/Oak; Prostate Problems; Psoriasis; Pyorrhea; Quinsy,;Scarlet Fever; Spinal Meningitis (sometimes referred to simply as Meningitis); Spleen; Wounds.Echinacea Goldenseal Tincture, Nature's Way Alcohol Free - 1 fl. oz.
Echinacea promotes well being during cold and flu season, and supports the immune system, it is combined with other herbs traditionally used for the same purpose and to promote general well being.Barberry Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Barberry is used for treating gallbladder disease, heartburn and indigestion and diarrhea. This herb can also be used to treat infections, parasites, psoriasis, and vaginitis.Bhumy Amalaki Powder (Phyllanthus niruri), 100% Organic - 8 oz. Bulk
Bhumy Amalaki is employed for numerous conditions including blennorrhagia, colic, diabetes, dysentery, fever, flu, tumors, jaundice, vaginitis, and dyspepsia.Silver Biotics Liquid, Silver Supplement - 8 fl. oz.
Silver Biotics was tested by researchers and was found to kill every strain of bacteria that it was tested against and that these bacteria, many of which have become resistant to antibiotics, cause many human ailments.Very Private Intimate Moisture - 2 fl. oz. (FDA Safety Tested)
For the most pleasurable, lasting intimacy. Eliminates vaginal dryness instantly. So natural, feels like a woman's own moisture, really protects delicate vaginal tissue.Very Private pH Balanced Body Wash 6 oz., (FDA Safety Tested)
The ultimate in safe and sensuous body care. Best of all it contains a bacteria and fungal protection system so each time you wash it helps protect the sensitive intimate area against common vaginal irritations.Very Private Body Silk - 6 fl. oz. (FDA Safety Tested)
This systemic moisturizer is a serious dry skin treatment; rebalances and reconditions even seriously dry, patchy, flaky-skin. FDA tested for safety.
HOLISTIC & NUTRITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
To relieve itching, open a vitamin E capsule and apply the oil to the inflamed area. You can also use vitamin E cream.
Add 3 cups of pure apple cider vinegar to bath water to treat vaginitis. Soak in the tub for 20 minutes, allowing the water to flow into the vagina. This changes the pH of the vagina and surrounding tissues, thus inhibiting growth of micro-organisms.
Drink pure water, preferably steam distilled water.
Avoid yeast products and a diet rich in simple sugars. Both of these may contribute to micro-organism growth in the vagina and urinary tract. See recommendations under Nutrition/Diet.
HERBS
Douche with infusions made from antiseptic herbs such as calendula, echinacea, garlic, goldenseal, fresh plantain, St. Johns wort, or tea tree oil, along with herbs such as comfrey leaves, to soothe irritation. Echinacea and goldenseal can also be taken internally. Note: Comfrey is recommended to be used externally only. Do not take goldenseal internally on a daily basis for more than one week at a time, do not use it during pregnancy, and use it with caution if you are allergic to ragweed.
Calendula and vitamin A vaginal suppositories are soothing and healing to irritated tissues. Goldenseal suppositories are useful for all types of infection. Use as label directs. The extract may be used by adding to warm water and use it as a douche. Useful for all types of infections. Do not take goldenseal for longer than 2 weeks at a time. Do not use it if you are pregnant or have cardiovascular disease, gallbladder disease, or glaucoma. Do not take goldenseal with supplemental vitamin B-6 or with protein supplements containing the amino acid histidine.
Calendula cream may be applied to the vagina. It is an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.
Meno-Fem from Prevail Corporation is a combination of traditional herbs and nutrients designed to combat the symptoms of menopause. It is helpful for vaginitis related to hormonal imbalance.
Aloe vera Gel. Apply to the vagina or add to warm water for use as a douche. Helpful for infections and itching.
Barberry, Coptis, or Oregon Grape root. Apply cream to vagina and/or take, internally, the herbal tincture, 20 drops in 1/4 cup water 3 times daily. These activate the immune system. Useful if there is blood in the urine. Do not use barberry, coptis, or Oregon grape root if you are pregnant or have gallbladder disease. Do not use these herbs daily for more than 2 weeks. Do not take these herbs with supplemental Vitamin B-6 or with protein supplements containing the amino acid histidine.
Garlic. Raw garlic taken 1-2 cloves with food daily. Antibacterial, also fights yeast infections. Consult your heath care provider before using garlic on a regular basis if you are taking anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin sodium (Coumadin), or if you are taking Flagyl. Garlic will counteract the effects of bifidus and Lactobacillus cultures taken as digestive aids. Discuss the use of this herb with your health care provider before having any type of surgery. Raw garlic can cause heartburn and flatulence.
Pau d'Arco capsules. Take as directed on label or use as a tea. Prepare and use directed on label or use as an extract. Add to warm water to make a douche. Contains natural antibiotic agents and has a healing effect.
Sangre de drago Tincture. Place 1-1/2 tablespoons (15-20 ml) of tincture in 1 cup warm water. Use as a douche 1-2 times daily. Keeps bacteria from "rooting" in the lining of the vagina.
Tea tree oil is good for vaginitis. Place 1-1/2 tablespoons (15-20 ml) of oil in 1 cup warm water. Use as a douche 1-2 times daily. Topical tea tree oil cream is effective against fungal infection, herpes blisters, warts, and other types of infections. It kills gardnerella and other microbes that cause vaginal infection. Tea tree oil suppositories have been used successfully for vaginal yeast infections. People who are allergic to celery or thyme should not use tea tree oil products. Do not take tea tree oil internally.
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NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member has symptoms of vaginitis.
Symptoms persist longer than 1 week or worsen, despite treatment.
Symptoms recur after treatment.
Unusual vaginal bleeding or swelling develops.
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