Colpitis - symptoms and treatment. Atrophic colpitis - what it is and how to treat it

Colpitis (vaginitis) is inflammation of the vaginal walls caused by infection. The pathology is accompanied by swelling of the mucous membranes and the presence of copious discharge (leucorrhoea) with unpleasant smell. Vaginitis occurs against the background of diseases such as candidiasis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, ureaplasmosis, gardnerellosis ( bacterial vaginosis), mycoplasmosis, etc. Also, the development of colpitis can be provoked by the activity of gonococci, E. coli, streptococci, mycoplasmas and other pathological microorganisms. Bacteria enter the vagina not only from the outside (through sexual contact), but also through the blood flow from the source of inflammation occurring in the body.

Treatment of colpitis is a complex of medicinal and physiotherapeutic measures aimed at neutralizing clinical manifestations and pathogens.

Colpitis is diagnosed in 60% of patients of childbearing age (18-45 years). The disease can also occur in girls, which is usually caused by poor intimate hygiene (the peak incidence occurs at the age of 5-8 years). Vaginitis also affects women who have entered the postmenopausal period. Most often this is due to natural age-related changes.

Untimely treatment of colpitis leads to the transition of the inflammatory process to the appendages and cervix, which causes the development of infertility, uterine erosion and endometritis.

Types of colpitis

The forms of vaginitis are distinguished depending on the factors that caused the formation of the inflammatory process. Each type of colpitis has certain differences and symptoms, which requires a comprehensive and competent therapeutic approach.

The most common forms of colpitis include:

  • Trichomonas vaginitis. Inflammation is caused by flagellated protozoan microorganisms - Trichomonas. Mostly infection occurs through sexual contact. Infection is also possible through household items. This form of colpitis is easy to diagnose. It also responds well to treatment. Trichomonas vaginitis is accompanied by such clinical manifestations as copious, foamy discharge with purulent inclusions and an unpleasant odor;
  • Candidiasis colpitis. The inflammatory process is caused by fungi, which exhibit pathological activity against the background of provoking factors. To the most severe symptoms diseases include itching and curdled discharge. Infection can occur through sexual contact or as a result of decreased immunity. Treatment of this form of vaginitis consists of taking antifungal drugs and using local remedies;
  • Atrophic colpitis. Inflammation is due low level estrogen production. In this case, the woman experiences a feeling of burning and dryness in the intimate area, as well as pain during sexual intercourse. Treatment of the atrophic form of the disease consists of prescribing hormone replacement therapy.

Causes of colpitis

IN at different ages Various factors can trigger the development of vaginitis:

  • IN childhood colpitis occurs as a result of exposure to opportunistic microflora into the vagina from digestive system. Pathogens can be staphylococci, pinworms, streptococci, etc.;
  • During reproductive age, a specific colpitis usually develops, which is infectious in nature. The trichomonas form of the disease predominates. Less common candidal vaginitis, which mainly causes hormonal imbalance during gestation;
  • After menopause, nonspecific colpitis usually occurs, caused by streptococci and staphylococci. Atrophic, candidal and trichomonas forms of colpitis can also be diagnosed. They usually occur under the influence of additional risk factors.

At any age, the cause of colpitis is one’s own pathogenic microflora or the influence of infectious microorganisms that belong to the group of bacteria, viruses and fungi.

If the development of vaginitis occurs as a result of the activity of pathogenic bacteria, there are various factors, which help them penetrate the vagina and actively reproduce. These factors include:

  • Incorrect, insufficient intimate hygiene;
  • Refusal to use contraceptives;
  • Lack of a regular partner;
  • Endocrine disorders (diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism);
  • Damage to the genital organs of a thermal, chemical, mechanical nature (prolonged use of an intrauterine contraceptive device, ruptures during labor activity, rough sexual acts, wearing uncomfortable, tight clothes);
  • Childhood diseases (measles, scarlet fever). The causative agents of these pathologies hemolytically enter the genitals and begin active life;
  • The use of low-quality underwear, which is made from low-grade synthetic materials;
  • Hormonal changes (menstruation, pregnancy, breast-feeding, menopause);
  • Long-term use of antibacterial, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory or hormonal drugs;
  • Hypoestrogenism (estrogen deficiency in the body);
  • Radiation and chemotherapy in the treatment of oncological pathologies;
  • Strict diets, lack of vitamins and micronutrients;
  • Allergic reactions;
  • Decreased immunity;
  • Frequent abortions;
  • Pathologies of the digestive system.

Symptoms of vaginitis

Inflammation of the vaginal walls can manifest itself with the following symptoms:

  • Vaginal discharge. Their nature depends on the etiology and severity of inflammatory processes. Compared to when the woman was healthy, the amount of discharge increases significantly. Leucorrhoea may be watery, purulent, foamy or curdled. Atrophic colpitis is accompanied by the appearance blood clots in secretions;
  • Increased body temperature;
  • Unpleasant smell. More often it is sourish, unsharp;
  • Redness, swelling, irritation of intimate areas;
  • Sensations of burning and itching, which intensify with prolonged walking, at night and in the afternoon;
  • Increased irritability, insomnia, neuroses. These manifestations are caused by symptoms of colpitis, which constantly bother the patient;
  • Periodic pain in the pelvis. Typically, during intimacy or the act of defecation, pain intensifies;
  • Frequent urge to urinate. Enuresis (urinary incontinence) is often observed.

The acute phase of colpitis is accompanied by an exacerbation of the clinical manifestations of inflammation. When the disease becomes chronic, the symptoms become mild. The most stable manifestation of vaginitis, which causes significant discomfort to a woman, is itching. Even with minor discharge it doesn't stop.

Colpitis in girls

Vaginitis in girls is usually characterized by damage to the vulva (external genitalia), which is why it is called vulvovaginitis. Most often, this condition is caused by a bacterial infection. The development of the disease can also be caused by allergic reaction. Usually the inflammation is chronic and is accompanied by slight mucopurulent discharge. Exacerbation of vulvovaginitis can be caused by acute viral or infectious diseases and hit foreign body in the vagina.

Colpitis in postmenopause

The development of vaginitis in women 55-60 years old is atrophic in nature. The onset of the disease is due to the onset of menopause. At the same time, in women there is a decrease in the amount of sex hormones, which leads to drying out ( atrophic changes) vaginal mucosa and weakened ovarian activity. This process is characterized by thinning of the vaginal membranes, smoothing of folds, mild injury and inflammation. The absence of lactobacilli (the main components of microflora) provokes the involuntary entry of pathogenic microorganisms into the vagina and their further reproduction.

Colpitis during pregnancy

During pregnancy, vaginitis leads to certain inconveniences, but it is not the colpitis itself that is dangerous, but the complications that it causes. The occurrence of an ascending infection has a detrimental effect on the development of the fetus and is dangerous for the child during birth process. Inflammation of the vagina in pregnant women can cause problems with pregnancy, lead to infection of the amniotic fluid, infection of the fetus and other pregnancy complications.

The acute form of colpitis during pregnancy is accompanied by painful sensations and quite abundant cloudy discharge. With the chronic course of the pathology, pain and discharge become less pronounced.

Treatment of inflammation of the vaginal walls in pregnant women requires a special approach and attention. Despite the fact that the majority local drugs for the treatment of colpitis during pregnancy, they are safe; before using them, you should consult a doctor.

Diagnosis of colpitis

basis effective treatment Colpitis is considered to be a correctly diagnosed diagnosis. The diagnosis is made based on the results of a patient interview, gynecological examination, as well as hardware and laboratory research. In acute colpitis, during a vaginal examination using speculum, the gynecologist immediately detects redness and swelling of the vaginal mucosa. In the back of the vagina, mucopurulent discharge is detected.

With the fungal form of vaginitis, a white coating is found on the reddened walls of the vagina, when removed, the mucous membrane begins to bleed. Scrapings and smears from urethra, cervix and vagina for further diagnostics taken by a doctor after preliminary treatment of the genitals with a special drug. Laboratory tests will determine the stage and form of the disease, as well as the type and nature of the pathogen.

The treatment tactics for vaginitis are determined by the doctor personally in each situation. In this case, the doctor takes into account the symptoms of inflammation, the patient’s age, her physiological characteristics and the body’s needs, as well as the causes and stage of the disease.

Complications of colpitis

Lack of timely treatment of any type of vaginitis can lead to severe consequences For female body. Possible complications of colpitis include:

  • Transition of inflammation into chronic, sluggish pathology. Chronic inflammatory process not only is it difficult to treat therapeutically, but also worsens the quality of life with constant relapses;
  • Spread of the inflammatory process to upper sections urinary system, which provokes the development of cystitis, urethritis and other diseases in this area;
  • Non-specific colpitis that is not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner can cause problems with conception, infertility and miscarriage. Chronic vaginitis can lead to ectopic pregnancy;
  • The appearance of erosive bleeding areas on the walls of the vagina, through which various infections easily penetrate the organs of the reproductive system;
  • Risk of education infectious complications after operations and a number of gynecological examinations.
  • The occurrence of synechiae in girls, which leads to fusion of the labia minora and labia majora;
  • Formation of endometritis, cervicitis, cervical erosion, salpingoophoritis and other pathologies of the reproductive organs.

Timely diagnosis and a well-chosen course of therapeutic intervention will help prevent the occurrence of adverse consequences of colpitis.

Treatment methods for colpitis

Therapy of vaginal inflammation requires an integrated approach, which necessarily includes etiotropic treatment. In this case, the therapeutic effect is aimed at eliminating or suppressing the activity of the causative agent of the inflammatory process. For these purposes, the doctor can use antibacterial, hormonal, antiviral and antimycotic drugs. In some situations it is required combination treatment, which involves taking several medications at the same time.

Also integrated approach The treatment of colpitis includes the following activities:

  • Prescription of general strengthening drugs for immune disorders;
  • Vaginal douching medicines with antimicrobial effect;
  • Washing intimate places with special solutions;
  • Compliance with dietary nutrition (refusal of alcoholic beverages, exclusion of fatty, spicy, salty foods).

During therapy, laboratory examination of vaginal leucorrhoea is carried out at certain time intervals. In women of reproductive age, a control smear is taken on the 5th-6th day of the menstrual cycle. In girls and women aged 50-60 years, the analysis is done after completing the therapeutic course.

Local treatment of vaginitis involves the use of various antiseptic and disinfectants. A woman is prescribed rinsing and douching with soda, potassium permanganate, and solutions boric acid. The course of treatment is 2-3 weeks.

In addition to etiological and local therapy, treatment is necessary accompanying pathologies. If the provoking factors are not eliminated, colpitis will constantly recur. For these purposes, a correction is carried out hormonal disorders(for senile colpitis), weight loss, treatment of diseases endocrine glands And diabetes mellitus. If a woman is obese, it is important to control her weight and fight extra pounds by observing rational nutrition and activities physical exercise. If you have diabetes, it is important to control your blood sugar levels. If colpitis in childhood is provoked by measles or scarlet fever, it is prescribed antibacterial therapy infections. If the provoking factors are eliminated, the prognosis for recovery is considered favorable.

In order for the course of prescribed treatment to be as effective as possible, the patient should adhere to the following recommendations:

  • Abstinence from intimacy for the period of therapeutic influence. The disappearance of clinical manifestations does not indicate recovery. Only laboratory diagnostics can confirm the elimination of inflammatory processes;
  • If necessary, not only the patient, but also her partner undergoes therapy. Since nonspecific colpitis can be asymptomatic in men, there is a high probability reinfection pathogenic bacteria after resuming sexual relations;
  • Regular hygiene procedures using antiseptics(at least 2 times a day);
  • If colpitis is diagnosed in a girl, it is important for parents to carefully monitor her intimate hygiene. The child needs to be washed after each urination and bowel movement. When washing clothes, you need to use high-quality detergents. Linen should be ironed before putting it on. You also need to make sure that the girl does not suffer from itching and does not scratch intimate parts. These actions can provoke re-infection;
  • Observe dietary food. In addition to avoiding spicy and salty foods, you should include fermented milk products in your daily diet;
  • Some medicines imply the complete exclusion of alcohol. Even if similar contraindications are absent, it is still recommended to refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages and foods.

After completing the therapeutic course, many patients need increased local immunity and restoration of natural vaginal microflora through the reproduction of biocenosis in mucous membranes. For these purposes, vaginal probiotics, local antibacterial drugs, vaginal suppositories etc.

After completion of treatment, the patient passes control tests(bacteriological culture, smears, blood tests), which allow you to evaluate the results of the therapy.

Features of treatment of colpitis during pregnancy

Treatment of vaginitis in pregnant women requires special attention. It is pregnant women who are the most vulnerable, since in addition to their impaired immunity, serious problems occur in their bodies. hormonal changes. Nonspecific colpitis in such situations can provoke the development bacterial infection. The treatment regimen is determined only by the doctor, taking into account the patient’s position, her state of health and the severity of clinical manifestations.

Colpitis cannot be left untreated, since inflammation adversely affects both the condition of the mother and the fetus. Also unborn child at risk of contracting an infection during labor.

When treating vaginitis, pregnant women are prescribed a course of antibacterial treatment, physiotherapeutic procedures and immunomodulators. Topical medications may also be indicated. All medications during pregnancy should be taken with caution, as prescribed by the doctor.

Prevention of colpitis

The main task in preventing colpitis is to neutralize provoking factors that contribute to the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms into the vagina. To do this, a woman should follow the following rules:

  • Timely treat gynecological pathologies that weaken ovarian function;
  • Do not use contraceptive gels containing spermicides, which cause changes in the vaginal microflora;
  • Strengthen the immune system by taking a complex of microelements and vitamins;
  • Avoid perfume additives in products intimate hygiene;
  • Change underwear daily;
  • Do not use gaskets made of low-quality materials (bacteria grow faster in such an environment);
  • Wear comfortable, loose clothing.

In women, this disease is characterized by inflammation of the vaginal mucosa and is one of the most common female pathologies. According to statistics, every 3rd woman in modern times suffers from in different forms colpitis, often without even knowing about it. Moreover, according to some sources, there are practically no women who have not suffered from this disease at least once in their lives.

Pathogens

The direct causative agents of colpitis in women are bacteria, fungi and viruses.

  • When the cause of the inflammatory process is bacteria, bacterial colpitis occurs. It can be caused by Proteus, Gardnerella, Escherichia coli, staphylococci, streptococci.
  • Fungal colpitis, more popularly known as thrush, is provoked by
  • Various viruses can also cause inflammation of the vagina, such as papillomavirus, cytomegalovirus or herpes.

Causes of colpitis

Inflammation of the vaginal mucosa can be influenced by a variety of factors. In most cases, the culprits are pathogens. Natural vaginal microflora in the body healthy woman successfully suppresses their vital activity. However, when malfunctions occur in its operation, it is possible to cope with pathogenic flora she is unable to. Such factors include:

Symptoms

In order to fully understand what colpitis is in women, it is necessary to consider the features of the manifestation of this disease and its characteristic symptoms. So, you can suspect the presence of this disease in the body if you observe the following manifestations:

  • Burning and itching of the genitals, increasing during menstruation, after sexual intercourse and during physical activity.
  • Various in their characteristics, abundant vaginal discharge(milky, curdled, purulent, foamy, bloody), which have an unpleasant odor.
  • Swelling and redness of the external genitalia.
  • Pain during sex aching pain, localized in the lower abdomen.
  • Increased body temperature.
  • Frequent urination.

These symptoms of colpitis in women may have varying degrees severity, which depends on the form of inflammation and the cause of its occurrence. Yes, when acute form disease, the symptoms of inflammation are pronounced and cause serious discomfort to the patient, while in the chronic form they manifest themselves rather weakly.

Types of colpitis

  • Atrophic colpitis. The disease is diagnosed when the cause of the development of the inflammatory process in the vagina is a decrease in the level of estrogen in the female body. In most cases, this disease occurs in women after menopause, when, due to a decrease in estrogen levels in the body, the vagina becomes practically defenseless against infections.
  • Candidiasis colpitis. It is an inflammation of the vaginal mucosa resulting from infection by yeast-like fungi. Most often it is diagnosed along with damage to the vulvar mucosa. This disease predominantly occurs in women of reproductive age. Pregnant women are especially at risk.
  • Trichomonas colpitis. It is a widespread sexually transmitted disease. Trichomonas colpitis in women is often combined with inflammation of the urethra and cervix. Mostly the disease has chronic course with occasional periods of exacerbation.

How to relieve the symptoms of colpitis before a diagnosis is made?

It is highly not recommended to begin treatment until the tests necessary for diagnosis have been completed, as it can distort the results of laboratory tests.

The only drug that experts recommend taking to alleviate such manifestations of the disease as having an uncharacteristic odor or appearance of vaginal discharge, as well as severe itching of the genitals, is the drug "Fluomizin". This product is an antiseptic wide range actions - will help in short terms eliminate discomfort and, which is very important, will not affect test results.

Diagnostics

Knowing what colpitis is in women, and suspecting the first signs of this disease, you need to immediately visit a specialist. You can reliably find out about the presence or absence of this disease in the body only after a diagnostic examination.

In addition to examination by a gynecologist, a woman must undergo bacterial diagnostics which involves taking smears from the vagina, cervical canal and urethra. Another method for diagnosing this disease is colposcopy, in which the vaginal mucosa is examined for the presence of lesions.

Colpitis in women: treatment

Treatment of colpitis should be comprehensive and based on an individual approach to each patient. When diagnosed with colpitis, the signs and treatment of the disease depend on physiological characteristics female body, and therefore the selection of funds is carried out only after passing all necessary tests and a thorough examination of the patient and, very importantly, her sexual partner.

To eliminate colpitis, etiotropic drugs and anti-inflammatory drugs are usually prescribed. Antibacterial drugs are powerless against colpitis, since many pathogens tolerate the effects of antibiotics quite steadfastly. In rare cases, antibacterial therapy may still be prescribed, but antibiotics will be used topically (in the form of solutions and emulsions) and for a short time.

The specialist must identify diseases associated with colpitis and also prescribe a course of treatment for them. An important point To get rid of this disease is to abstain from sexual intercourse with a man for the entire period of treatment.

Treatment of colpitis with candles

An effective remedy to help get rid of colpitis are suppositories. Often in the treatment of diseases they use antifungal and antimicrobial drug, which has an anti-inflammatory effect. The candles “Vokadin”, “Klion-D100”, “Pimafucin” have also proven themselves well.

For colpitis accompanied by mycoplasmosis, chlamydia or ureaplasmosis, which must be combined with tablets such as Fluconazole or Metronidazole. It is necessary to use suppositories for colpitis only as prescribed by a doctor.

Sanitation as a method of treating colpitis

In the acute form of the disease and purulent discharge from the vagina, douching with chamomile decoction, as well as a special composition prepared from a solution of manganese and rivanol, is indicated. It is important to pay attention to the fact that douching is prohibited for more than three days in a row, since otherwise the normal microflora of the vagina can be disrupted.

To perform sanitation, pasteurized peach oil and rosehip oil, as well as streptomycin emulsion, are also used. It is necessary to mix all the liquids and treat the vaginal walls with the resulting composition for one week. They have proven themselves to be excellent with chamomile infusion and chlorophyllipt.

Having considered what colpitis is in women, we came to the conclusion that this is an extremely unpleasant illness, the treatment of which should not be delayed. Timely diagnosis and appropriate response measures will help eliminate colpitis as quickly and effectively as possible and prevent it from developing into a chronic form.

Colpitis is inflammatory changes in the vaginal mucosa infectious origin. This disease affects mainly the fairer sex of childbearing age, but it does not ignore both girls and postmenopausal women. Colpitis in gynecology is diagnosed in 65% of patients and is considered the most common inflammatory pathology of the external genitalia.

What kind of disease is this, what are the causes and symptoms in a woman, and what treatment is most effective for quick recovery— we’ll look at it in the article.

Colpitis: what is it in women?

Colpitis is an inflammation of the vaginal mucosa or vaginitis. This is one of the most common diseases among women of predominantly reproductive age. According to statistics, every 3rd woman in modern times suffers from various forms of colpitis, often without even knowing it. Signs of the disease include excessive leucorrhoea, itching, pain in the vagina and lower abdomen.

Most often in gynecology, colpitis refers to damage to the vagina, but inflammation can also spread to the external genitalia. Although the disease most often affects women, girls before period hormonal changes are also vulnerable to pathology.

The general condition of a woman may also suffer:

  • performance decreases,
  • sexual activity,
  • health worsens.

All these processes are the result of inflammation of the vaginal mucosa, and the disease is called colpitis.

Reasons

The only cause of colpitis is infection. However, not all women have an infection in the vagina that causes inflammation. A healthy vagina can independently cope with infectious aggression.

Conditionally pathogenic flora is represented by microbes that, when in good condition immunity are in balance with the normal flora, but the balance is very fragile. It is worth weakening your immune system and this flora becomes pathogenic.

If a woman is healthy, then the vaginal flora consists mainly of Doderlein vaginal rods, which produce lactic acid, which has a detrimental effect on various microbes.

The main reasons causing the development of colpitis include:

  • Bacterial, fungal and viral infections(including sexually transmitted diseases).
  • Various allergic reactions.
  • Medications for topical use (tablets and suppositories);
  • Chemical reagents used as douching solutions;
  • Foreign bodies.

Predisposing factors for the occurrence of colpitis are:

  • weak ovarian activity;
  • various anomalies of the reproductive system (prolapse of the vaginal walls, displacement of the genital organs, wide gaping of the genital slit, etc.);
  • various diseases internal organs and systems;
  • poor sexual hygiene (frequent changes of partners);
  • failure to comply with personal hygiene rules;
  • changes in the vaginal mucosa as a result of irrational use contraception, too frequent or improper douching, thinning of the mucous membrane during the postmenopausal period;
  • various vaginal injuries (chemical, thermal or mechanical).

Colpitis can be caused by the following sexually transmitted diseases:

  • chlamydia;
  • trichomoniasis;
  • gonorrhea;

In each specific case, the causative agent of the disease enters the vaginal mucosa during unprotected sexual intercourse.

Species

Depending on the nature of the infection, colpitis is divided into 2 types:

  • Specific.
  • Non-specific.

According to the localization of the original infectious focus Colpitis is divided into:

  • primary, when the process immediately develops in the vagina;
  • secondary, in case of hit infectious agents into the vagina from other places (ascending - from the surface of the vulva and descending - from the uterine cavity).

The only symptom of colpitis present in any form is pathological vaginal discharge, and its volume and appearance identifies the causative agent of the disease. Purulent copious discharge with colpitis, they often indicate the specific nature of the inflammation.

Acute form

The acute form can sometimes go unnoticed. When opportunistic microorganisms multiply, redness of the mucous membrane of the genital organs, burning and itching during urination, and copious discharge are observed.

Chronic colpitis

What is chronic colpitis? When a woman ignores symptoms during acute course diseases, the infection goes into a latent state, as a result of which the form of pathology is transformed into a chronic one.

In addition, a chronic inflammatory focus is entrance gate for other pathogenic (disease-causing) microbes and viruses. And it has been proven that chronic colpitis significantly increases the risk of developing oncological diseases genitourinary system.

Atrophic colpitis

Atrophic colpitis (also known as senile colpitis), as a rule, develops due to estrogen deficiency, which leads to a decrease in the secretion of the vaginal glands and thinning of the mucous membrane of the organ.

Candida

Inflammation is caused by the proliferation of fungi, which, as a result of provoking factors, exhibit pathological activity (another name for yeast colpitis). Among the brightest clinical symptoms- curdled discharge and itching. These fungi are opportunistic microorganisms and can be found not only in the vaginal cavity, but also on the oral mucosa or in the large intestine.

Trichomonas colpitis

What form is this? It is a widespread sexually transmitted disease. Trichomonas colpitis in women is often combined with inflammation of the urethra and cervix. Mostly the disease has a chronic course with occasional periods of exacerbations.

Symptoms of colpitis

The clinical picture of colpitis is largely determined by its origin and form, but is not distinguished by a wide variety of symptoms. Typically, colpitis of any etiology occurs with a similar clinical picture, and their cause and form only affect its severity.

  • Vaginal discharge can be observed in any phase menstrual cycle and rarely depend on it. The nature of the discharge may vary depending on the cause of the disease. Light or milky discharge may be normal.
  • Unpleasant smell– mostly mild, but sour;
  • Swelling in the area of ​​the external genital organs, their redness and irritation;
  • Feeling of itching and burning, which begins to increase during long walking, as well as during the period of night rest and in the afternoon;
  • Insomnia, increased irritability, neuroses caused by a complex of disease symptoms that constantly bother a woman;
  • Recurrent pain with colpitis, localized in the pelvis. They may intensify during the act of defecation or during intimacy;
  • Frequent urge to urinate, in rare cases, urinary incontinence is observed;
  • Temperature rise body to subfebrile levels.
Symptoms in a woman
Acute colpitis
Chronic form
  • sensation of itching and burning;

However, with a long course of the disease, the signs of colpitis become less noticeable. However, after a cold, hypothermia, overwork, or after sexual intercourse, they can appear with renewed vigor.

Symptoms in a woman
Acute colpitis
  • discharge in large quantities (mucous, mucopurulent, sometimes bloody) with an unpleasant (sometimes foul) odor;
  • itching and burning caused by irritating effect pathological discharge;
  • swelling and redness of the mucous membranes of the vagina and external genitalia;
  • pain in the lower abdomen and genitals (feeling of fullness, pressure);
  • pain when urinating.
Chronic form In the chronic form, the pain is insignificant or completely absent, the woman feels normal, but her libido decreases. The disease may be accompanied by:
  • secretion of secretions with an unpleasant odor of various colors and thickness;
  • sensation of itching and burning;
  • pulling painful sensations lower abdomen;
  • discomfort during sex and urination.

Periodically, symptoms disappear on their own.

Colpitis during pregnancy

The presence of an inflammatory process in the vagina during pregnancy contributes to discomfort. But this is not as scary as the consequences that may arise due to the presence of colpitis. The infection can cause a big blow to the child’s health, and the baby can also suffer during childbirth.

Most often, colpitis during pregnancy is fungal in nature, and it is quite severe: with a large amount of discharge, pronounced swelling of the vaginal walls, painful itching and bursting pain in the perineum.

From the vagina, the pathogen easily penetrates through the cervix into the uterine cavity and can lead to:

  • Intrauterine infection of the fetus with delayed development, pneumonia, damage to the skin and mucous membranes;
  • Threat of miscarriage and miscarriage;
  • Inflammation of the placenta and fetoplacental insufficiency;
  • Rupture of the genital tract during childbirth;

Complications

The consequences for young women can be quite serious. In the absence of proper treatment, the inflammatory process covers other genitourinary organs and can lead to:

  • endometritis,
  • kidney diseases.

Such diseases cause damage reproductive system, up to infertility.

Prolonged absence of treatment increases the risk of complications. A guaranteed consequence of ignoring the disease is its transition to a chronic form, when periods of improvement with the slightest weakening of immunity are replaced by exacerbations of the woman’s condition.

Diagnostics

Knowing what colpitis is in women, and suspecting the first signs of this disease, you need to immediately visit a specialist. You can reliably find out about the presence or absence of this disease in the body only after a diagnostic examination.

Before making a diagnosis of colpitis, the doctor collects anamnesis and conducts comprehensive examination patients, consisting of:

  • examination of the cervix, vaginal walls using gynecological speculum;
  • examination of the urethra, clitoris, labia, thighs for redness, swelling, cracks, ulcers;
  • palpation of the uterus and appendages to identify complications of vaginitis.

Mandatory studies:

  • microscopy of discharge from the cervical canal, vagina and urethra for bacterial flora, including Trichomonas, Gardnerella, gonococci and fungi;
  • bacteriological culture of native material with isolation of the pathogen and determination of its sensitivity to antibiotics (preferably no earlier than 3 weeks after taking antibacterial drugs);
  • smear for oncocytology
  • PCR - polymerase chain reaction, a research method that allows you to identify most infections;
  • cytology - examination of scrapings of the mucous membrane of the cervix;
  • Ultrasound of the pelvic organs, which is prescribed to identify possible complications colpitis.
  • general blood test;
  • general urinalysis;
  • blood test for RW, HIV;
  • culture for gonococcus;
  • diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections (herpes, papillomavirus, chlamydia, mycoplasma, ureaplasma);

Treatment of colpitis

Treatment of colpitis in women involves eliminating the pathogens that caused the disease, restoring normal vaginal flora and stimulating the immune system. Self-medication of vaginitis is not allowed. Therapeutic measures are prescribed to all patients, regardless of their age and form of the disease, or the presence of concomitant pathology.

The general principles of treatment of colpitis are:

  • etiotropic therapy;
  • treatment of the patient's sexual partners;
  • recovery normal microflora vagina;
  • treatment of concomitant diseases;
  • diet;
  • the use of physiotherapy;
  • traditional methods.

Treatment should be general and local. The main task is to fight the infectious agent. For this purpose, the following groups of drugs are used:

  • Antibacterial (azithromycin, doxycycline, tetracycline, cefapexin);
  • Antiprotozoal (metronidazole) - for the treatment of Trichomonas colpitis;
  • Antifungals (fluconazole, ketoconazole, nystatin) - for the treatment of candidal colpitis;
  • Antiviral agents (acyclovir, interferon).

Candles

Vaginal tablets and suppositories help to locally disinfect the mucous membranes of the vagina and help normalize the microflora, restore acidic environment. They significantly alleviate colpitis - treatment in women involves the administration of the following drugs:

  • Iodoxide;
  • Betadine;
  • Nystatin;
  • Terzhinan;
  • McMiror;
  • Neotrizol;
  • Lomexin;
  • Fluomizin and similar.

Preparations for restoration of flora

In the final stage of treatment for colpitis, medications are prescribed to help restore the natural flora of the vagina and increase its protective properties.

For this purpose, a variety of drugs are used, in particular:

  • Acylak;
  • Vagilak;
  • Bificol;
  • Bifidumabacterin;
  • Lactobacterin.

Physiotherapy

To monitor the cure of colpitis, smears are taken on the 4th-5th day of menstruation in women reproductive period, in girls and women in menopause - after completing a course of treatment. To prevent relapse of the disease, the course of treatment should be repeated after 4-5 months.

As a rule, if you apply for timely medical assistance and adequate fulfillment of all necessary prescriptions, the course of treatment for vaginitis is 5-7 days. During this period, experts strongly recommend abstaining from sexual contact, and, if necessary, the patient’s sexual partner should be treated at the same time.

Maintaining a proper diet

Following a diet is necessary to strengthen general condition body, immune system, speedy restoration of damaged tissues. For colpitis, diet is not a mandatory item in complex treatment, so it boils down to some general guidelines.

  1. copes well with initial stages. Take 40 grams of dried flowers and mix, and then pour half a liter of boiling water. Use the decoction for douching in the morning and before bed.
  2. Yarrow herb
  3. Colpitis can be treated chamomile decoction
  4. calendula tincture

Your diet should include foods rich in polyunsaturated acids - trout, fish oil, cod, salmon, linseed oil, tuna. With colpitis, a woman often suffers from a lack of vitamins, so it is necessary to consume the following foods:

  • There is a lot of vitamin B in legumes, nuts, mushrooms, liver, garlic, spinach.
  • Vitamins A and E are found in seaweed, viburnum, broccoli, dried apricots, sorrel, spinach, and prunes.
  • Vitamin C is found in strawberries, currants, oranges, sea buckthorn, strawberries, kiwi, and lemon.

Folk remedies

As folk remedies For the treatment of colpitis, douching with herbal decoctions with wound-healing and anti-inflammatory effects is used.

  1. A mixture of St. John's wort and calendula flowers copes well with vaginitis in the initial stages. Take 40 grams of dried flowers and mix, and then pour half a liter of boiling water. Use the decoction for douching in the morning and before bed.
  2. Yarrow herb- 20 g, sage leaves - 20 g, pedunculate oak bark - 40 g, rosemary leaf - 20 g. Mix everything, add three liters of water and boil. Use twice a day for douching.
  3. Colpitis can be treated chamomile decoction. To prepare it, you need to pour a tablespoon of chamomile flowers into a bowl and pour a liter of boiling water. After this, the dishes should be covered with a lid. When the infusion has cooled, it must be strained. The prepared decoction is used for douching in the morning and evening.
  4. Will cope perfectly with this disease and calendula tincture. It is prepared as follows: you need to take two teaspoons of calendula tincture, add it to half a glass of cold boiled water and use the resulting mixture for douching.
  5. Take chamomile (5 teaspoons) + sage (3 teaspoons) + leaves walnut(5 teaspoons) + oak bark (2 teaspoons). A tablespoon of herbs is poured into a glass of boiling water. Use the infusion for washing.
  1. It is advisable to carry out therapy both sexual partners, since it is asymptomatic pathological condition may provoke the development of the disease in the future;
  2. must be maintained careful intimate hygiene using antiseptics;
  3. During the period of treatment, sexual intercourse should be completely avoided;
  4. if a child is sick, you should wash him after each urination and defecation, and also make sure that he does not scratch his private parts;
  5. I need underwear wash with anti-allergenic products, do not contain unnecessary additives;
  6. required to follow a diet (consume large number fermented milk products, avoid eating spicy and salty foods), it is not recommended to drink alcoholic beverages.

Prevention

There is no specific prevention of colpitis, since this disease can be caused by many various reasons. Nonspecific prevention includes a number of measures that significantly reduce the risk of developing colpitis.

You can reduce the risk of infection in the following ways:

  1. Carry condoms with you to protect yourself if you are not sure about your partner.
  2. Find out what products you are allergic to. Many contraceptive medications contain allergens that can have an extremely negative effect on the genitals.
  3. Maintain hygiene and buy a special washing gel; as a rule, it does not contain allergens and does not cause irritation.
  4. Visit your gynecologist more often, and especially if you have any the slightest symptoms and discomfort.

Colpitis is quite serious and unpleasant illness, bringing a woman a feeling of discomfort. But this disease can be cured if you do not self-medicate and immediately consult a specialist.

Among the many diseases that threaten women's health, the most common is colpitis or vaginitis. In medicine, there are two types of colpitis - specific and nonspecific. If the first type has an explainable cause (as a result of sexually transmitted infection) and clear symptoms, then recognize nonspecific colpitis (or vaginitis), determine the reasons for its appearance, and carry out correct diagnosis and pick up adequate therapy much more difficult.

Reasons

The pathology is a change in the normal microflora of the vagina, which consists of microorganisms - lactobacilli that produce lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide during the breakdown of glycogen of the mucous membrane. So they are able to protect the mucous membrane from pathogenic microbes. Nonspecific colpitis develops against the background of a disorder metabolic processes
in the body arising due to:

  • mechanical damage and trauma to the vaginal mucosa (during various interventions: abortion, insertion of coils, douching, etc.);
  • chemical influences hygiene products, lubricants, medications and allergic reactions to them;
  • hypothermia or abuse of hot baths and saunas;
  • stressful situations;
  • problems with the endocrine system.

The onset of the disease is provoked by a decrease in the body’s natural defenses and an increase in the activity of opportunistic flora. Such processes can worsen in postmenopausal women, which causes the development of atrophic vaginitis.

Symptoms

For clinical picture Nonspecific colpitis is characterized by the presence of pronounced local symptoms:

  • burning, severe itching in the vagina and the appearance of purulent discharge;
  • pain in the lower abdomen, especially during urination and sexual intercourse;
  • swelling of the genital mucosa and ulceration in the vulva area.

IN chronic stage itching and burning become less intense and occur periodically; the main complaint remains serous-purulent discharge from the genital tract. Hyperemia and swelling of the mucous membrane decrease, infiltrates can form in places of erosion, detected in the form of point elevations above the surface.

Diagnostics

Resolution correct diagnosis vaginitis requires a traditional examination by a gynecologist, carried out using mirrors and analysis of the patient’s complaints. About the presence of nonspecific colpitis
will indicate swelling, thickening and hyperemia of the vaginal mucosa. The doctor will also be able to visualize the coating individual areas gray coating, which is removed by scraping.

A fairly informative diagnostic method is also laboratory tests. A smear is taken from different areas for cytology, as well as for bacteriological culture and studying the reaction of flora to individual antibiotics. To exclude infections, a DNA-PCR test is performed on blood from a vein, which determines the presence of pathogens.

Treatment

Since vaginitis is an inflammatory process, its treatment should be comprehensive, general and local.

General treatment includes anti-inflammatory and antibiotic therapy, depending on the result of the flora sensitivity test.

Local - involves procedures including douching and sanitation with decoctions of chamomile, sage, potassium permanganate solution, rivanol. The use of antipruritic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ointments, baths, and suppositories is also quite effective. In case of injuries or damage that provoked the appearance of colpitis, great attention should be paid to their healing and prevention repeated cases education. To do this, you need to exclude sexual relations for a while, try to avoid mini- or medabortions in the future, and consult with a gynecologist about the possibility of using an intrauterine device.

A prerequisite for healing is the treatment of other diseases that caused metabolic disorders, changes in microflora and decreased immunity.

If main reason the appearance of nonspecific colpitis is an allergic reaction to tampons, sanitary pads, underwear or contraceptives (condoms, suppositories), then the first stage will be a complete refusal to use them. It will be possible to find an optimal replacement for them only after the symptoms of vaginitis have been completely eliminated and under the supervision of a gynecologist.

The treatment cycle lasts 5 - 10 days with mandatory repetition of the complex in for preventive purposes in 4-5 months.

In this fragment of a popular TV show they will talk about the occurrence of vaginitis and its treatment:

Prognosis and prevention

When observing the first signs of illness in the form of discharge, itching or other discomfort You should consult a qualified gynecologist. Lack of treatment can lead to the spread of the inflammatory process to the internal organs of the woman’s reproductive system, which threatens difficult cases infertility. Advanced colpitis during pregnancy can pose a threat of miscarriage.

Correct diagnosis and professional treatment nonspecific vaginitis will quickly relieve a woman from unpleasant symptoms without posing a threat to her health.

Prevention of vaginitis consists of mandatory personal hygiene, cleanliness of sexual life, timely treatment general and genital diseases, eliminating factors that provoke infection of the vagina by pathogenic microorganisms.

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Colpitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the vagina and the vaginal part of the uterus, in which swelling of the mucous membrane occurs and copious discharge appears (with an unpleasant odor, purulent or white).

As a rule, this condition in women can occur as a result of a variety of infections, which include candidiasis (candidal colpitis), trichomoniasis (trichomoniasis colpitis), chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes and other various infections. Colpitis is often caused by streptococci, gonococci, mycoplasmas, coli and other infections that penetrate the vagina from the outside, or together with blood directly from the source of inflammation located inside the body.

Treatment of colpitis must be adequate and timely, otherwise the disease can spread to the uterus itself, appendages, cervical canal, which can lead to such serious complications, such as cervical erosion, endometritis and infertility.

What causes colpitis?

Mostly microbes enter the vagina during sexual intercourse. However, for a healthy woman this process is not scary, since the vagina tends to self-cleanse, which leads to the destruction of these bacteria.

Predisposing factors for the occurrence of colpitis are:

  • weak ovarian activity;
  • various anomalies of the reproductive system (prolapse of the vaginal walls, displacement of the genital organs, wide gaping of the genital slit, etc.);
  • various diseases of internal organs and systems;
  • poor sexual hygiene (frequent changes of partners);
  • failure to comply with personal hygiene rules;
  • changes in the vaginal mucosa as a result of irrational use of contraceptives, too frequent or improper douching, thinning of the mucous membrane during the postmenopausal period;
  • various vaginal injuries (chemical, thermal or mechanical).

All of the above factors weaken protective forces the body against various infections, which facilitates the unhindered penetration of microbes into tissues and their reproduction, whereas in healthy body they predominantly die during the process of self-cleaning of the vagina.

Types of colpitis

The most common types of colpitis are:

  • Atrophic colpitis, when an infectious process in the vagina occurs as a result of a decrease in the level of estrogen in a woman’s body, i.e. in old age. Atrophic colpitis occurs predominantly in women after menopause, when, as a result of a decrease in estrogen levels, the vagina becomes vulnerable to infections.
  • Candida colpitis is an inflammation of the vaginal mucosa that occurs as a result of infection by yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida. As a rule, candidal colpitis is combined with damage to the vulvar mucosa. Occurs this type diseases in women of reproductive age. Pregnant women are especially at risk.
  • Trichomonas colpitis is one of the most common types of sexually transmitted disease. Along with vaginal lesions, inflammation of the cervix and urethra (trichomoniasis) can often be observed. Mostly Trichomonas colpitis has a chronic course with periodic exacerbations.

Symptoms of chronic and acute colpitis

According to the nature of the course, colpitis can be chronic and acute.

Symptoms of acute colpitis occur suddenly. In the vaginal area there is a burning sensation, pain, itching, copious discharge of a purulent or mucopurulent nature with an admixture of ichor, heaviness in the lower abdomen. Sometimes symptoms of colpitis such as burning and pain when urinating occur. When examining the patient, the vaginal mucosa has a swollen and red appearance, and at the slightest impact it begins to bleed. The inflammatory process can spread to the external genitalia and cervix.

The individual course of acute colpitis depends on factors such as the state of immunity and the age of the woman, as well as the causative agent of the infection. Trichomonas colpitis is characterized by heavy discharge: foamy, purulent, yellowish-green in color, with a strong unpleasant odor. With candidal colpitis, the discharge is usually white, with a curd-like consistency.

If acute colpitis is not treated in a timely manner, it usually becomes chronic. Chronic colpitis is dangerous because the infection can lurk, and the inflammatory process will be sluggish with periodic exacerbations. Symptoms of colpitis in in this case not clearly expressed.

Chronic colpitis is characterized by slow spread infectious process to other organs: fallopian tube, uterus and ovaries.

Diagnosis of colpitis

A correct and timely diagnosis is the key to successful treatment colpitis. As a rule, the diagnosis is made based on a survey of the patient, an examination by a gynecologist, and the results of laboratory tests.

In case of acute trichomonas colpitis, while examining the patient on a chair, the doctor can immediately notice redness and swelling of the vaginal mucosa, and see mucopurulent discharge in the back of the vaginal vault.

With candidal colpitis, the doctor may detect a white coating on the reddened mucous membrane of the vagina, and when trying to remove it, the mucous membrane will begin to bleed.

For correct setting To diagnose a woman, tests are taken from the cervical canal, urethra and vagina. This helps to clarify the type of pathogen.

Treatment of colpitis

In the treatment of colpitis, doctors use an integrated approach consisting of:

  • antibiotic therapy to influence the causative agent of infection (those antibiotics to which the greatest sensitivity has been detected are used);
  • general strengthening treatment, especially for immune disorders;
  • washing the external genitalia medicinal solutions, vaginal douching with antimicrobial agents;
  • special diet excluding fatty, spicy and salty food, as well as any alcoholic drinks.

During treatment, the woman is required to undergo laboratory tests at certain intervals.

The main method of treating atrophic colpitis is replacement hormone therapy which is carried out in two ways:

  • local - vaginal suppositories and tablets are prescribed;
  • systemic – prescribed hormonal injections or oral tablets.

The main medications for atrophic colpitis are Klimonorm, Ovestin, Gynodian-Depot, etc.

Prevention of colpitis

To prevent the disease, a woman must eliminate those conditions that facilitate the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms and monitor:

  • strengthening the immune system;
  • timely treatment of gynecological diseases;
  • hygiene of sexual life and hygiene of the genital organs.

You should avoid perfumed sprays for intimate hygiene and bath gels, various contraceptive gels that contain spermicides, as they disrupt the natural microflora of the vagina.

Preference should be given to comfortable underwear made from natural fabric.

Video from YouTube on the topic of the article: