The difference between self-testing fungal and bacterial vaginosis

The difference between self-diagnosed candidal vaginitis and bacterial vaginitis lies in the characteristics of leucorrhea, vaginal pH, drug sensitivity, treatment methods and prognosis.

1. Characteristics of leucorrhea

When self-diagnosing for candidal vaginitis, the leucorrhea is usually white and thick or like tofu dregs; while bacterial vaginitis is characterized by grayish white, uniform, thin leucorrhea with a fishy odor.

2. Vaginal pH

The two diseases are distinguished by testing the pH value of vaginal secretions. Under normal circumstances, there are a variety of microorganisms in the female vagina, among which Lactobacillus is dominant and can produce substances such as hydrogen peroxide to inhibit the growth and reproduction of other pathogens. Therefore, the vagina has a certain antibacterial ability, and its pH value is usually 3.8-4.5. If the pH value increases, it may indicate an infection.

3. Drug sensitivity

Because different pathogenic bacteria have different drug resistance, drug sensitivity tests are needed to determine the most effective treatment plan. For candidal vaginitis, commonly used antifungal drugs such as fluconazole and itraconazole are effective; for bacterial vaginitis, antibiotics that have good effects on both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, such as metronidazole and clindamycin, are needed.

4. Treatment Methods

Patients with candidal vaginitis can apply topical ointments such as nystatin preparations and imiquimod under the guidance of a doctor, or take flucytosine tablets, ketoconazole capsules and other drugs for systemic treatment. Bacterial vaginitis is mostly treated with oral or topical anti-anaerobic drugs such as chloramphenicol and metronidazole.

5. Prognosis

After standardized treatment, the symptoms of candidal vaginitis can generally be relieved quickly, but it is easy to relapse; while bacterial vaginitis can usually recover well with timely treatment, and the recurrence rate is relatively low.

Whether it is diagnosed with candidal vaginitis or bacterial vaginitis, you should maintain good personal hygiene habits and avoid excessive vaginal cleaning to avoid damaging your own microecological environment.