Complications

If colitis is not treated early enough or sufficiently, complications can develop. Due to the disturbed vaginal environment, pathogens can spread into the uterus and from there through the fallopian tubes to the ovaries and into the abdominal cavity. The consequences are, for example, inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries (pelvic inflammatory disease), and in the worst case, inflammation of the peritoneum (peritonitis) with secondary blood poisoning.

Particularly in pregnant women, colpitis is therefore a disease that must be taken quite seriously, as it can lead to premature birth if not treated. Existing infections can be passed on to the child during birth and lead to various complications. This is especially true for infections with herpes viruses, gonococci and chlamydia. In such cases, the child is often delivered by Caesarean section to avoid a childhood infection.

Prognosis

As a rule, colpitis can be treated well. If the pathogen is known, a targeted therapy can be initiated. It is important to ensure that the therapy is carried out regularly and completely in order to eliminate all pathogens. In this way, colitis is usually overcome within a few days, as long as it is detected and treated early.

Prophylaxis

The best prophylaxis to avoid colitis is to build up a healthy vaginal flora. To prevent the transmission of pathogens by sexual partners, a condom should be used during sexual intercourse. Appropriate intimate hygiene should also be practiced.

Washing the intimate area too seldom, but also too often, increases the risk of developing colpitis. Furthermore, soaps, shampoos or vaginal rinses should not be used. Furthermore, it can be preventive to wipe the anus from front to back after bowel movements, so that intestinal bacteria are not wiped forward towards the vaginal opening.

In women who develop colpitis more frequently, lactic acid bacteria can help to keep the vaginal flora healthy. Lactic acid bacteria are available in capsule form in pharmacies. They can be introduced into the vagina once a week as a prophylactic measure, where they maintain the acidic environment that prevents pathogens from multiplying. Nevertheless, even if these general behavioral measures are observed, vaginal inflammation can still occur. However, if the disease is presented to a gynecologist in good time, it can usually be treated well and safely.