Patient's question:
These days, my period just finished, and I've been feeling itchy in my private area. Also, right after my period ended, I noticed some abnormal discharge, which looks a bit strange. I went to the hospital for a check-up, and the doctor said it's vaginitis. Could you please recommend a good topical medication to use?Doctor's answer:
Lactobacillus in the vagina plays a key role in maintaining the normal flora of the vagina. The glycogen in the vaginal epithelium is converted into lactic acid by the action of lactobacilli, creating a weakly acidic environment in the vagina. The following conditions may affect the balance of the vaginal ecosystem: ① Sex hormones: such as the reduction of estrogen levels before and after menstruation, leading to an increase in vaginal pH, which favors the growth of anaerobic bacteria. ② Certain spermicidal creams can be toxic to lactobacilli. ③ Medications: Some medications, such as broad-spectrum antibiotics, can completely eliminate or inhibit lactobacilli, affecting the vaginal environment. ④ Infections; such as promiscuity in women, leading to the transmission of STDs, can affect the existing vaginal flora and cause endocrine disorders. The incidence of candidal vaginitis is relatively high, and it is prone to recur, making treatment more difficult. Thus, preventing the complete and thorough elimination of candidiasis to avoid