Vaginal infections are the most common cause of preterm birth after 24 weeks of pregnancy. They can travel up the cervix and cervical canal into the amniotic sac and spread to the amniotic fluid and baby. Most often, these infections are caused by bacteria, fungi or chlamydia. Women who have had previous miscarriages or premature births are especially at risk.
Diagnosis vaginal infection
The diagnosis of “vaginitis” often comes as a complete surprise to women, because warning symptoms and signs of inflammation do not always occur, such as itching, burning or increased discharge. When a vaginal infection occurs, it is always preceded by a disturbance of the acid-base relationship in the vagina. As a rule, the pH of the vaginal environment is so acidic that bacteria and germs are blocked. During pregnancy, however, the pH value of the vagina can change due to hormonal changes and then no longer perform its barrier function. If dangerous germs gain the upper hand in the vagina, this can be detected by a changed pH value.
Prevent vaginitis
To prevent vaginal infections, there are a number of aspects to consider regarding:
- Hygiene
- Vaginal suppositories
- Vaccination
- Test glove for self-examination
Hygiene
Firstly, when going to the toilet, you should pay more attention to the fact that, in principle, after defecation must be cleaned from front to back, so as not to introduce germs into the vagina. The use of non-irritating wet wipes can also be useful here. In addition, the genital region should be carefully patted dry after urination. The folds that are easily accessible by hand can then be cleaned with a soap-free lotion. Disposable washcloths and towels are generally better, because the frequently used terry cloth washcloths irritate the skin too much mechanically and also clean poorly. They also provide an ideal breeding ground for germs. During pregnancy, increased discharge occurs quite naturally. However, you should refrain from using tampons because they dry out and can therefore also contribute to milieu disturbances and irritation of the vaginal walls. Small, absorbent pads protect the linens and can provide relief from the increased moist and warm milieu. To normalize the vaginal milieu, the completely harmless treatment of the vagina with vitamin C vaginal suppositories, which can be carried out over a longer period of time, is recommended.
Vaginal suppositories
The use of tampons dipped in yogurt is not advisable, because compared to the use of vitamin C suppositories, the yogurt bacteria cause only a temporary change in the environment, as they die after a few days in the vagina.
Vaccination
An innovative protection against vaginal infections is offered by a vaccination in which a vaccine consisting of inactivated germs from eight different strains of lactic acid bacteria is administered. The inactive germs stimulate the formation of antibodies in the vaginal secretions that fight the pathogens. For successful 3-year protection, 3 vaccinations are given at two-week intervals for basic immunization. A booster vaccination then follows after one year.
Test glove for self-examination
Since vaginal examinations are usually done only once a month even with regular and consistent prenatal care, it is worthwhile to do the examination at home. To facilitate examination and evaluation for pregnant women, an examination glove has been developed with a test paper attached to the index finger. After contact with the vaginal fluid, the test strip shows by its coloring whether the pH value is normal or has changed. One should not be irritated by a one-time discoloration. A one-time slip is no reason for concern. The test paper also reacts to seminal fluid or urine. If the test result is outside the normal range, the measurement should be repeated a few hours later. If deviations persist, the doctor must be contacted. As a rule, 1-2 measurements per week at home are sufficient. In addition, the physician should check the pH value during the preventive medical checkup.
Cost absorption in case of vaginosis
The cost of testing for chlamydia is covered by health insurance. A control smear for bacteria, on the other hand, is a private matter.Only in cases of urgent suspicion of bacterial vaginosis do the statutory health insurance funds cover the costs. The costs for the biodegradable examination glove made of polyethylene must be covered privately. They are approximately EUR 25 for 25 pieces.
