Figure 1-5. Female genitalia.
b. Signs and symptoms. Signs and symptoms vary with the cause of the
infection.
(1) In bacterial infections, the discharge is yellow to gray and frothy with a
foul odor. Many white blood cells are contained in the discharge.
(2) In trichomonal vaginitis, the discharge is yellow-green, frothy, and has a
foul odor. There may be red "strawberry" lesions on the cervix.
(3) In candida vaginitis, the discharge is usually white and thin with curd-like
flecks. The discharge has a moldy odor.
c. Treatment. Treatment also varies according to the cause of the infection.
(1) Bacterial origin caused by E Coli and many other gastrointestinal
bacteria. Treat as follows:
(a) Sulfathiazole (Sultrin Triple Sulfa Cream or povidone-iodine,
Betadine Vaginal Gel) applied with an applicator.
(b) Systemic antibiotics may be required.
(2) Parasitic origins caused by trichomoniasis. Use meteonidozale (Flagyl)
to treat males and females. Adverse reactions include gastrointestinal problems such
as stomatitis, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other adverse reactions include a sharp
metallic, unpleasant taste. DO NOT use alcohol for at least 72 hours after completing
Flagyl therapy. The drug dosage and the length of treatment vary from 1 day (2 grams
in one or two doses) to 10 days (250 mg three times a day).
MD0580
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