Birth Control Medications & Vaginal Infection

Research finding shown that reduced T lymphocyte reactivity to Candida antigen is the result of the elaboration by the patient’s macrophages of prostaglandin E2,  which happened to many women that taking Progestin and other hormonal birth control medications (pills, patches, or shots).

Medications
 

Bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis are each commonly treated with metronidazole (Flagyl).  Adverse side effects of metronidazole include nausea, diarrhea, metallic taste in the mouth, rash, itch, flushing, fever, headache, dizziness, vomiting, glossitis, stomatitis, dark urine, and/or paraesthesia.  High doses and/or long-term treatment with metronidazole is associated with the development of black hairy tongue, leukopenia, neutropenia, increased risk of peripheral neuropathy and/or CNS toxicity.  Butoconazole (Gynezole-1) is prescribed to treat candida infections.  Adverse side effects of butoconazole include burning in vagina when cream is inserted, irritation in vagina when cream is inserted, stomach pain, fever, and foul-smelling discharge.

Natural Remedies
 

Vaginitis can be treated effectively with herbal supplementation. Tee tree oil and Aloe Vera are helpful for infections and is known for its healing effects.  It can be applied topically to relieve itching or taken internally or used in a douche.  Barberry has potent infection-fighting properties.

Douche
 

Douche with infusions made from antiseptic herbs such as calendula, garlic, goldenseal, fresh plantain, St. John's wort, or tea tree oil, along with herbs such as comfrey leaves to soothe irritation.

Herbal Suppositories

Calendula and vitamin A vaginal suppositories are soothing and healing, while Goldenseal suppositories and extract are useful for all types of infection. Chamomile has antifungal properties. Cinnamon and dandelion inhibit the growth of Candida albicans. Echinacea has antifungal properties and enhances the immune system. Pau d'arco contains natural antibiotic agents and has a healing effect.

Homeopathy Remedies

Homeopathic remedies can soothe discomfort and help the body overcome infection without the use of toxic medicines.

• Kreosotum is used for vaginitis with watery, thin, unpleasant-smelling, very irritating discharge that makes the vulva swell and itch.
• Pulsatilla is often helpful for vaginitis during pregnancy.  Pulsatilla helps when a creamy white or yellowish discharge appears, which can be either bland or irritating. The vagina may feel sore, and the labia may itch or burn. The woman will be moody, possibly tearful, wanting a lot of attention and affection.
• Sulphur is used when vaginal discharge looks yellowish, is offensive-smelling, and causes great burning and itching, and when symptoms may be aggravated by warmth and bathing.
   

Good hygiene is also important in preventing some types of vaginitis from recurring and may relieve some symptoms. Here are tips to prevent and combating recurring infections:

1. Avoid baths, hot tubs and whirlpool spas.  Rinse soap from your outer genital area after a shower, and dry the area well to prevent irritation.
2. Don't use scented or harsh soaps, such as those with deodorant or antibacterial action.  Avoid irritants, including scented tampons and pads.  Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to avoid spreading fecal bacteria to your vagina.
3. Use a male latex condom to help avoid infections spread by sexual contact. 
4. Wear cotton underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch.  Avoid wearing underwear to bed, as yeast thrives in moist environments.