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What Causes Vaginal Infections?
Disrupting the Vaginal Ecosystem
The vaginal ecosystem is a regulated
community, maintaining a balance between Lactobacilli and other
bacteria. When this balance is disturbed, there are consequences. In
worst cases, it may result in infections and inflammation. The
disturbance to the ecosystem may stem from either physiological
factors or pathological factors.
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Personal habits and
hygiene |
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Hygiene
factors disrupting the vaginal ecosystem results from
inappropriate hygiene measures as well as neglect of vaginal
hygiene. For example, washing with soap can disrupt the natural pH
as soap is alkaline. This will allow the pathogenic organisms to
flourish and multiply, eliminating the Lactobacilli. It is
also important to change tampons, sanitary napkins and panty
liners every few hours. |
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Sexual intercourse |
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Semen pH is
approximately 7 which is highly alkaline. The alkalinity of the
semen can disrupt the acidic environment of the vagina. It is very
common for women to experience some discharge within 24 hours
following intercourse. This is the result of the alkaline semen
disrupting the acidic environment of the vagina. |
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Psychological
health |
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condition of general health includes psychological health. Stress
can suppress the immune system, which in turn can expose the human
body to many opportunistic organisms. In the vagina, infectious
micro-organisms can invade the mucous tissues of the vagina. |
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Sex hormones |
A hormone is a substance made by one tissue and
carried by the bloodstream to another tissue in which it exerts
some effect. Sex hormones affect the growth and function of the
reproductive organs. They also impact sexual behaviour. The
development of secondary sex characteristics, such as breasts in
women and a deeper voice in men, is controlled by these hormones,
as well.
The menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and lactation are directed by the
female sex hormones. These are oestrogen, progesterone, prolactin,
luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle – stimulating hormone
(FSH). The hormone levels fluctuate and are closely interrelated.
During ovulation, there is a greater release of progesterone,
which in turn offers the vaginal environment the greatest
protection against foreign micro-organisms. |
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Pathological Factors |
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Physical Trauma |
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Tissue damage that may be caused from delivery of baby, rough
internal examination, retention of tampon or condom and wearing
tight clothing. |
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Chemical Irritations |
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Cosmetic vaginal
products such as vaginal sprays, perfume, talc or antiseptics can
cause chemical irritations. Some women can also develop an
irritation to condoms.
The internal
factors which are of influence on the vaginal environment are: the
condition of the general health of the woman, the balance of the
sex hormone levels and the use of medication and drugs. |
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Medication |
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use of some medications can disrupt the vaginal ecosystem. Some
broad spectrum tetra cyclic antibiotics are known to disrupt the
balance between good and bad bacteria which live in harmony in the
human body. A common and well known example of this disturbance is
Thrush. It is very common for women to experience Thrush following
a course of antibiotics. |
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Overgrowth of unfavourable
organisms causing disease |
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micro-organisms are also known to cause Sexual Transmitted
Infections. |
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Information sheets
Vaginal Discharge |
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