Patient's question:
I have some mild vaginitis, but I am allergic to suppositories. Whenever I use them, I get a fever. My friend told me that sperm have a (killing bacteria effect), so there's no need for treatment. I'm a bit skeptical. Can sperm actually kill bacteria?Doctor's answer:
Sperm or semen is primarily composed of protein and water, and generally lacks antibacterial properties. Since you and your boyfriend have been taking medication for a week during sexual intercourse, it is the effect of the medication, not the sperm or semen, that is at play. You need to continue taking the medication for treatment. The substances in semen that enter a woman's body can help maintain the balance of her internal microbiome. Appropriate sexual activity is beneficial for a woman's health. However, if you have gynecological inflammation, relying on semen to treat it is unrealistic. Vaginal infections are caused by bacterial infections, and if left untreated, they may lead to cross-infection.