The human body is inhabited by a huge number of different bacteria involved in the course of the main processes. At the same time, the concentration of each strain has clear values and ensures the normal functioning of all human systems.
One of them is coca, which belongs to an opportunistic class of bacteria that can provoke the development of many diseases, including gynecological ones.
Normal microflora of the vagina and possible varieties of coccal infection
In a normal state, the microflora of a woman's vagina includes gram-positive rods or lactobacilli, the concentration of which can reach 90-95%.
Their purpose is to ensure the full functioning of the genital organs and prevent the development pathogenic bacteria. Under the action of lactobacilli inside the vagina, the level of acidity increases significantly, at which the formation of most pathogens becomes impossible.
The level of acidity is influenced by a huge number of factors, ranging from hygiene to nutrition. Also, an important role in maintaining the cleanliness of the vagina is played by the general state of the immune system, which provides control over the maintenance of optimal microflora parameters.
The remaining 5-10% is occupied by other bacteria, among which there are coca of various kinds, such as:
- staphylococci;
- streptococci;
- tetracocci;
- diplococci;
- gonococci;
- meningococci;
- sarcinas.
Most of these cocci can be present in the vagina, even under optimal acidity parameters. Single varieties of pathogenic bacteria may be present in the microflora of the vagina. However, their concentration is so low that they are not able to have absolutely no effect on the functionality of the genital organs. Only an increase in the number of a certain strain of cocci can affect a woman's health and lead to the development of any diseases.
Based on this, a smear on the flora is one of the most important types of research that allows you to timely determine the presence of certain diseases and prevent their development.
An increased concentration of cocci in a smear indicates a shift in the vaginal microflora and the formation of an inflammatory process. With a decrease in the concentration of lactobacilli, acidity decreases sharply, and the level of alkali rises steadily, which is a favorable environment for the development of pathogenic microorganisms.
The main causes of the development of coccal microflora in the vagina and its symptoms
The presence of cocci in the smear indicates not only a violation of the microflora of the vagina, but also certain malfunctions in the work of the whole organism. In this case, the main reasons for the development of pathogenic bacteria are:
The above factors do not necessarily lead to a deterioration in the condition of the vaginal microflora and the formation of cocci, but such a development of events cannot be ruled out. At the same time, the combined effect of several factors increases the risk of their development several times.
The symptoms of coccal flora are similar to the diseases they provoke. However, in the early stages, its symptoms are of a general nature and look like this:
- discharge of mucus from the vagina;
- bad smell;
- itching and burning in the vagina;
- feeling of discomfort.
Similar signs are observed in gynecology quite often and characterize the presence of any pathological process. This does not necessarily mean the development of cocci, since similar symptoms are also observed in the formation of candidal lesions or chlamydia.
To determine the exact cause that served as a catalyst for the formation of negative symptoms, a flora smear is used. Deciphering its results makes it possible not only to determine the primary source of the development of the problem, but also the degree of its intensity. This makes it possible to choose the most accurate and effective treatment methods.
A smear on the flora allows you to determine the exact number of cocci in the vagina and track the dynamics of their spread.
At the same time, such infections can be treated only under the supervision of a doctor and his clear guidance, and self-medication can bring a diametrically opposite result and lead to an aggravation of the situation.
Features of treatment and the role of preventive measures
Treatment of coccal infections is carried out comprehensively and is aimed not only at suppressing the activity of pathogens, but also at raising the protective properties of the body.
Majority medications is aimed at reducing the concentration of pathogenic microorganisms in the vagina and stimulating the immune system.
Based on this, when detecting cocci in a smear, the following means can be used:
- antimicrobial;
- antibacterial;
- immunomodulating;
- antiseptics.
Such drugs can be used both topically and orally. Specific agents and their dosages are selected strictly individually based on the existing symptoms, test results and the type of pathogens.
Elimination of manifestations is not a guarantee that the coccal microflora will not develop again. Preventive measures are designed to prevent such a scenario, which look like this:
- personal hygiene;
- daily washing of the genitals;
- regular change of underwear;
- rejection of bad habits;
- avoiding stressful situations;
- complete rest;
- use of barrier contraception;
- proper nutrition.
By adhering to these simple rules, you can not only speed up recovery from exacerbation of coccal infections, but also prevent their further development. At the same time, their observance affects the state of the whole organism, which becomes much stronger and more resistant to various kinds of diseases.
Coccal flora in a smear is the norm, but only when it comes to a low concentration of pathogens. An increase in their concentration in the vagina indicates the development of some pathological process that can cause a lot of problems for a woman and require long-term treatment.
During a planned gynecological examination, the standard research method is a smear from the vagina for flora.
Through this analysis, microorganisms that inhabit the female genital tract are detected. Cocci in a smear in women are quite common, their presence there in large numbers indicates various infectious diseases urinary system. They belong to conditionally pathogenic microflora, and their insignificant presence in a smear in women is considered a variant of the norm. This condition does not require any treatment. However, under the influence of various provoking factors, cocci begin to actively multiply, disrupting the normal balance of the vaginal microflora. It is the detection of a number of cocci in a smear that exceeds the norm that can pose a threat to a woman's sexual health.
Types of cocci, and what is their danger?
After receiving the results of the analysis, a woman may wonder, cocci in a smear - what is it? The answer will be as follows: this is the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in the female genital tract. There are several types of cocci that can be found, these are:
- Streptococcus in a smear - its presence is allowed, since this bacterium belongs to the group of opportunistic pathogens. Streptococci in a smear in women, or rather, their excess, cause vaginal dysbacteriosis and inflammatory processes in the genitals.
- Enterococci also belong to the category of opportunistic pathogens and are representatives of the intestinal microflora. They develop quite quickly and well in the genitourinary system. Enterococci in a smear in women indicate a lack of hygiene of the genital organs. When they are detected, mandatory treatment is necessary.
- Coccobacilli in a smear - these include Haemophilus influenzae, gardenerella and chlamydia. Coccobacillary flora in a smear in women - what is it? Coccobacillary flora in a smear indicates the presence of sexually transmitted diseases, as well as bacterial vaginosis of the vagina. In this case, additional studies are prescribed in the form of a blood and urine test.
- Gonococci in a smear are detected when they affect the genitourinary tract. These bacteria cause cervicitis and salpingitis. Gonococci quickly cause an inflammatory reaction.
- Diplococci in a smear cause disturbances in the microflora of the vagina, and may be the cause of more serious infections such as meningococcal and pneumococcal infections. A smear from a healthy woman should not contain bacteria such as diplococcus.
- Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive coccus. This is the most common inhabitant of the mucous membrane of the genital tract. It also belongs to the category of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms, with their normal number does not affect the condition of the woman. The active growth of staphylococcus in a smear in women can cause various disorders of the genitourinary system. Sometimes additional analysis is required: a smear from the throat and nose for staphylococcus aureus.
A smear on the flora and indicators of the norm of cocci
Normal microflora serves not only to protect the vagina, but also the whole organism as a whole. It performs a number of important functions:
- maintains normal acid balance;
- prevents pathogenic bacteria and microorganisms from multiplying and fights them;
- participates in metabolic processes and has a beneficial effect on them.
The normal microflora of a healthy woman usually contains predominantly acidophilic lactobacilli, in other words they are called “Daderlein sticks” and bifidobacteria, in the amount of 10%. In addition, the presence of peptostreptococci is normally allowed, but in an amount of not more than 5%.
If a large amount of cocci is found in the smear, then this indicates that the contents of the vagina begin to turn into an alkaline environment. Cocci can cause 3 types of reactions in the vaginal environment - neutral, slightly acidic and alkaline. In a neutral environment, acidity does not exceed 5 pH, slightly acidic - allows pH up to 7. An alkaline environment is characterized by a pH level of more than 7.5. An acidic environment is considered normal, it is in it that there is no possibility for the development of pathogenic microorganisms.
With the initial shift of a normal acidic environment to an alkaline one, in addition to acidophilic bacteria, gram-positive diplococci appear. They begin to replace the beneficial microflora, and the number of Duderlein sticks begins to decrease significantly. If the environment becomes slightly acidic or neutral, then the decomposition of pathogenic microflora begins.
In an alkaline environment, all beneficial microorganisms die, only pathogenic cocci remain. This condition indicates vaginal dysbacteriosis, and subsequently, the development of inflammatory processes in the genitals is possible. Also, cocci can cause cervical erosion and endometritis, which have very unpleasant consequences. It is especially important to control and prevent the spread of coccal flora during pregnancy, as this can adversely affect the intrauterine development of the fetus. In addition, the inflammatory process can spread to the genitourinary system and intestines of a woman.
Causes and symptoms of cocci in a smear
There are a number of factors under the influence of which the coccal flora in the smear increases. These include:
- decreased immunity;
- constant wearing of synthetic underwear;
- insufficient hygiene of the genitals;
- improper use of sanitary pads;
- early onset of sexual activity;
- indiscriminate change of sexual partners;
- frequent douching;
- unprotected sexual intercourse;
- hormonal imbalance in the body;
- long-term use of antibacterial drugs.
As a result of prolonged and uncontrolled use of antibacterial drugs, beneficial microflora is destroyed, which contributes to the reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms. Reception of hormonal preparations, the period of pregnancy and breastfeeding directly related to fluctuations hormonal background women. Such fluctuations provoke the development and spread of coccal flora, so very often pregnant women suffer from dysbacteriosis in the genital tract.
One of the common reasons for the reproduction of cocci is douching. Such a procedure is mistakenly considered useful, in fact, it washes out everything useful and leads to irritation of the vaginal mucosa. Therefore, regular douching, reducing the number of beneficial lactobacilli, creates a beneficial environment for pathogenic ones.
An excessive increase in coccal flora can be suspected by certain symptoms. In particular, this is manifested in the fact that a woman begins to feel itching in intimate place. In addition, unusual vaginal discharge appears, which is profuse and has a specific unpleasant odor. By consistency, they have a viscous or curd structure, yellowish-greenish in color. One of the symptoms is unpleasant and uncomfortable sensations after intercourse.
With the penetration of pathogenic microflora into urinary tract A woman may experience painful urination. If the infection has spread to the fallopian tubes, then there are painful sensations in the lower abdomen.
Diagnosis and treatment
Detection in a smear in women of coccal flora does not always require the adoption of therapeutic measures. They are necessary when there are pronounced symptoms and the woman feels significant discomfort. Self-medication is unacceptable, it can aggravate the condition, you need to consult a doctor for a more accurate diagnosis and adequate treatment. Diagnostic measures are to take a smear from the vagina and study it in the laboratory. If an excessive amount of pathogenic microflora is detected, the doctor will prescribe treatment.
The main method of treatment in this case will be the use of antibacterial drugs in various forms. These are means of local external use, as well as drugs that have a systemic effect on the body. As such, antibiotics are used in the form of tablets, ointments and vaginal suppositories. It is highly recommended before prescribing certain antibacterial drugs to test for sensitivity to various groups of antibiotics. To do this, it is necessary to carry out a bacteriological culture of the vagina on a nutrient medium. After conducting such a study, it is possible to determine and identify the degree of susceptibility of certain microorganisms to a particular therapeutic drug. Based on such an antibiogram, the doctor can prescribe an effective treatment.
A smear is a routinely used method for studying the bacterial and cellular composition of mucous membranes, used in preventive examinations for suspected various diseases. Deciphering the analysis allows you to identify specific diseases of the reproductive system in women and men (gonococcal infection, trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis, vaginosis). It also allows you to identify carriers of pathogenic staphylococcus and even meningococcus. The method is simple, informative, does not require special training, is also applicable in children, is mandatory during pregnancy.
Depending on the need, smears are taken:
- In men - the oral cavity, nose, urethra (urethra).
- In women, the mouth, nose, urethra, vagina, cervical canal (cervical canal).
The main goals of microscopy of sowing from the nasal and pharyngeal cavities are the decoding of the bacterial composition and the detection of pathogenic staphylococcus (for example, with purulent diseases), meningococcus (diagnosis, prevention of meningitis), diagnosis of candidiasis (detection of fungi). The normal coccal microflora of the nasal cavity and mouth is represented by: gram-negative diplococci - Neisseria influenza bacilli, gram-positive cocci - epidermal staphylococcus aureus. These microbes are the usual "inhabitants" of the skin and mucous membranes, normally they do not cause diseases. Pathological coccal flora in the smear is represented by Staphylococcus aureus (Staphylococcus aureus), meningococcus (Neisseria meningitis).
Staphylococcus aureus - named after characteristic appearance in the formation of colonies. The main cause of nosocomial infection. At a preventive examination, the study shows that up to 35% of patients are carriers of this type of bacteria. Up to 70% of cases of diseases associated with purulent-inflammatory changes reveal Staphylococcus aureus: purulent skin infections (impetigo, acne, furunculosis), abscesses, phlegmon, purulent arthritis, endocarditis, pneumonia, osteomyelitis, meningitis. Staphylococcal sepsis (blood poisoning) has characteristic features and often leads to fatal consequences. If a microorganism is detected in the analysis, then this means that a person is predisposed to the above diseases. Treatment is carried out with a course of antibiotics, a control study is required.
Meningococcus is the causative agent of meningitis (inflammation of the meninges), meningococcal sepsis and nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal and pharyngeal cavities). The first two diseases are very dangerous, associated with a high risk of death. Outside the human body, meningococcus dies quickly. Under microscopy, meningococcus appears as double cells shaped like coffee beans, arranged in pairs with a concave surface to each other. Meningococcus is transmitted by airborne droplets. Cases when meningococcus is asymptomatically present in the microflora of the pharynx are not uncommon, while the carrier, in addition to the risk of infection progression, spreads meningococcus among healthy people. If meningococcus is found in the culture, this means that you need to see a doctor to prescribe a course of antibiotic therapy. Treating yourself is highly undesirable!
Gynecological and urological swabs
With the microscopy of a smear in women, it is possible to determine the degree of bacterial "purity", signs of sexually transmitted diseases, candidiasis. The normal microflora is represented mainly by lactobacilli (gram-positive rods) and bifidobacteria (90-96% in total) - by producing lactic acid, they “acidify” the environment, preventing the colonization of pathogenic flora. Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus epidermidis, Peptostreptococci, Propionobacteria, Clostridia and Gram-negative bacterioids and Prevotella are detected in much smaller numbers during the study.
In men, it is also possible to check the presence or absence of sexually transmitted diseases, prostatitis. The microbiocenosis of the urethra of men consists mainly of epidermal staphylococcus aureus, less common corynebacterium and streptococcus viridans.
The role of epidermal staphylococcus is to replace the pathogenic flora with waste products. Conditionally pathogenic microorganisms (Proteus, Escherichia coli, anaerobes, Staphylococcus aureus) enter the urethra usually from the skin and from intestinal tract. Pathological representatives of the microworld in the urogenital area of women and men are gram-negative diplococci (Neisseria gonorrhaeae).
Gonococcus in a smear
Gonococcus (Neisseria gonorrhaeae) is the causative agent of the sexually transmitted disease gonorrhea. When stained, it is gram-negative, looks like a double coccus (hence the name diplococci). The transmission of gonorrhea occurs sexually, household and vertical routes (from mother to child) are possible. Diplococci are poorly resistant to external environment. The main symptoms in women are usually not expressed, but vaginal discharge, pain when urinating, pain in the perineum, itching, burning are often noted.
Men note the appearance of discharge from the urethra, pain during urination along the urinary canal. This combination of complaints is often what pushes to perform the test. A smear for gonococcus does not require complex preparation: for women it is performed in the intermenstrual period, for men it is enough not to urinate 3 hours before the test. Sowing and deciphering colonies under a microscope reveals typical diplococci.
The accuracy of diagnostics when taking an analysis for gonococci is high. Treatment is quite simple - a course of antibiotic therapy with a drug excreted in the urine. After the cure of gonorrhea (must be carried out under the supervision of a doctor !!!), a second control smear is prescribed in a month. It is highly recommended to perform a study on a sexual partner.
Study during pregnancy
In the absence of complications, a gynecological smear during pregnancy is taken at registration, at 30 weeks and before childbirth. The goal is early detection and correction of changes in the degree of “purity” of the vagina, exclusion (confirmation) of the presence of sexually transmitted diseases.
There are 4 degrees of purity of the vagina (used not only during pregnancy, the scale is applicable to all women). Deciphering microscopy and what research means:
- 1 degree of purity (normocenosis) - Dederlein sticks (lactobacilli) predominate, a slight content of another, non-pathogenic flora. Erythrocytes and leukocytes - practically absent, treatment is not required;
- Grade 2 (intermediate type) - lactobacilli predominate, leukocytes up to 15 per field of view (during pregnancy up to 20 per field of view), treatment is usually not required;
- Grade 3 (dysbiosis or vaginosis) - no Dederlein rods were detected in the smear, gram-positive cocci, gram-negative rods, other bacteria predominate, treatment by a gynecologist is necessary;
- 4 degree (vaginitis). There are no lactic acid bacilli, erythrocytes and leukocytes were found in large numbers in the field of view, key cells and pathogenic microorganisms (cocci, diplococci, anaerobes, bacilli, fungi) are present. If changes in the analysis are detected, especially during pregnancy, especially if there is an abundant pathological coccal microflora, consultation and treatment with a gynecologist are mandatory! Self-treatment strongly not recommended!
The coccal flora is often representative of the normal flora of various body surfaces. Identification of pathological representatives of cocci - Staphylococcus aureus, meningococcus, gonococcus means that treatment is required under medical supervision. Pap smear during pregnancy is an important diagnostic test for women's reproductive health.
Usually, the coccal flora in a smear increases in women with a decrease in the immune defense of the walls of the vagina and in violation of estrogen synthesis.
The mentioned ovarian hormones promote the reproduction of lactobacilli, natural antagonists of cocci. As soon as the number of lactobacilli decreases, the coccal flora begins to develop intensively.
During the analysis in a smear, women are found, in addition to healthy microorganisms, lactobacilli, and pathogenic bacteria.
About forty species of microorganisms live in the vaginal microflora, but it is lactobacilli that inhibit their growth.
A smear on the flora allows you to determine the number of cocci contained on the mucous membrane of the genital organs.
If, according to laboratory results, in a smear taken by a woman, pathogenic bacteria exceed the number of healthy microbes, then this is a sign of the development of an inflammatory process in the body.
Normally, the microflora of the vagina should consist of an acidic environment that can protect the genitals from the penetration of the infectious agent.
The decrease in acidity is beneficial to opportunistic bacteria, including the coccal flora.
There is a change in the acid-base balance, which leads to dysbacteriosis, which is most often diagnosed simultaneously with inflammation.
After identifying the causes that provoked the inflammatory process, the doctor prescribes treatment, while the choice of drugs depends on the type of pathogenic bacteria that prevail in the vaginal microflora at the time of illness:
- gonococci;
- streptococci;
- enterococci;
- staphylococci.
Gonococci - infection occurs during sexual intercourse, bacteria contribute to the development of a serious pathology in the genitourinary system and internal genital organs.
Developing, the inflammatory process captures the cervix and uterine appendages, the urethra and rectum.
In a smear submitted for analysis, gonococci should be completely absent - their presence will indicate a sexually transmitted disease called gonorrhea.
Streptococci - belong to the gram-positive type of microorganisms, they should also not be in a smear passed on the flora. Single copies do not pose a health hazard.
Enterococci are also considered conditionally pathogenic bacteria, the habitat of these microorganisms is the gastrointestinal tract, but if they are found in a vaginal smear for flora, then this factor indicates pathological changes in the pelvic organs.
Norms and reasons for deviation
In a healthy woman, the vaginal microflora consists of 95% of lactobacilli - in the circle of doctors they are also called Dederlein sticks.
Given this figure, we can conclude that the norm of cocci in a smear should not exceed 5%.
Therefore, they begin to talk about the poor state of the vaginal microflora if cocci are observed in the smear everywhere. At the same time, the content of epithelial cells and leukocytes will also exceed allowable rate.
The coccal flora converts the acidic environment of the vagina into an alkaline one.
In this case, the degree of pathological changes is divided into three types:
- acidity pH 5.0 - indicates a weak acidic environment;
- no more than pH 7.0 - neutral microflora;
- not higher than pH 7.5 - alkaline flora.
With the slightest changes in the vaginal flora, the neutral environment approaches the alkaline one, which indicates an intensive growth of gram-positive diplococci and a decrease in the number of acidophilic lactobacilli.
Cocci can completely take the place of lactobacilli, as a result, the vaginal microflora will acquire a pronounced alkaline character.
In the process of laboratory examination of a smear for coccal flora, it is possible to determine the early stage of dysbacteriosis and the onset of the inflammatory process.
If coccal bacteria predominate in the smear, then this factor can be a sign of such pathologies? like endometritis or erosion, which are protracted.
Abundant coccal flora adversely affects the body of a pregnant woman - if left untreated, inflammation occurs, which quickly spreads to nearby internal organs.
If the infection from the vagina begins to immediately spread up to the uterus, then this position can harm the fetus. In this case, the doctor tries to choose the safest possible treatment.
An increase in the level of cocci in a smear can occur for several reasons, the most common of them (applying to both girls who have no sexual intercourse and accomplished women) are violations of the rules for caring for the external genital organs and a rare change of sanitary pads.
Douching with medications without a doctor's prescription and long-term use of antibiotics also lead to an increase in the level of coccal flora in the vaginal environment.
Symptoms and diagnosis of coccal flora
The fact that the level of coccal bacteria has grown in the vaginal environment can be noticed by a woman by certain symptoms, after which, without delay, she should consult a doctor.
The characteristic signs of the coccal flora are abundant vaginal discharge - it is impossible not to notice them, in specific cases they appear even on the labia. Large fragments of mucus can be observed on toilet paper and daily pads.
If the flora changed by cocci is not treated, then over time, the discharge will begin to change its consistency, become thick and viscous.
The mucus will cease to be transparent and acquire a milky white or yellowish tint. At the same time, an unpleasant odor inherent in coccal infection will come from the genitals, which does not disappear even after hygiene procedures.
Vague pains in the lower abdomen, a sensation of itching and burning in the genitals - all these factors indicate an acute stage of the development of the disease.
After visiting the hospital with these symptoms, the patient in without fail prescribe a smear for coccal flora.
The sampling of biological material is carried out using a medical spatula - during the procedure, the patient is on a chair.
Before taking a smear on the coccal flora, you can not douche and use alkali-based products for intimate hygiene.
A smear for coccal flora is taken from different parts of the reproductive system:
- neck of the uterine canal;
- vaginal vault;
- urethra.
The collected material is transferred to a glass slide and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
During laboratory analysis collected material dried and stained, which allows you to identify the type and number of microorganisms. In healthy patients, the coccal flora is minimal.
If the level of coccal bacteria in the smear exceeds the permissible norm, while their addition is a desquamated epithelium and a significant number of leukocytes, then, most likely, nonspecific colpitis makes itself felt.
In a smear for coccal flora, yeast-like fungi, Trichomonas, gonococci, key cells and gardnerella can be detected, which will indicate that other factors have become the cause of the violation of the vaginal environment.
Compose effective scheme treatment, the doctor will be able only after diagnosing the pathology and identifying its pathogen.
How to remove coccal flora?
It is possible to normalize the microflora of the vagina with dysbacteriosis with the help of antimicrobial agents, which are sold in a pharmacy in the form of vaginal suppositories or tablets.
But you can’t just get rid of the coccal flora - most often, antibacterial drugs are used to eliminate it.
At the moment, to suppress coccal infection, they prescribe:
- Metronidazole - available in the form of a gel, tablets and vaginal suppositories;
- Clindamycin is an analogue of Lincomycin, sold in capsules, in the form of a gel and suppositories.
In addition to antibiotics and antimicrobials, coccal flora is prescribed vitamin complexes and immunostimulating agents, the latter are preferably used in the form of suppositories.
Immunostimulants will help normalize the microflora by increasing the immunity of the vaginal walls.
If the pathology of the genital organs is accompanied by itching in the perineum, then antihistamines such as Zirtek and Citrine are prescribed to relieve such symptoms.
In order to prevent fungal infections and restore microflora, probiotics are attributed.
Treatment of cocci with antibiotics is rarely used to restore the microflora of the vagina in pregnant women.
Antibiotic therapy is carried out under the supervision of a doctor; douching with antiseptic solutions, for example, chlorhexidine, is considered a more gentle treatment option.
Douching with herbal decoctions helps to normalize the vaginal microflora and suppress the coccal infection. An effective impact should be expected from pharmacy chamomile, calendula and celandine.
In order to destroy the coccal infection, tampons impregnated with lactobacilli are introduced into the vagina. Such therapy should be carried out for at least 1.5 - 2 weeks, but, of course, with the permission of the doctor.
If fragments of mucus are present in a smear taken on coccal flora, then this factor is a symptom of the development of colpitis or dysbacteriosis.
Mucous discharge in itself is not considered a sign of the disease, but in combination with coccal microflora, they indicate the development of a nonspecific form of colpitis.
Most often, this pathology develops due to hormonal imbalance.
With this in mind, older patients and women during menopause are also prescribed drugs containing estrogen. Patients of childbearing age are prescribed hormonal contraceptives.
The preservation of an acidic environment in the microflora of the vagina is the norm, but without the development of harmful bacteria in it. If a significant amount of cocci is found in a smear in women, the alkaline balance changes, and not for the better. The coccal flora leads to an imbalance in the vagina. The doctor diagnoses dysbacteriosis often in conjunction with it. Treatment is necessary, otherwise endometriosis will subsequently develop, erosion of the cervix will appear.
Varieties of bacteria
Leukocytes are designed to protect the body from infection. An increase in their number when taking a smear indicates the development of an infection. With an increase in the coccal flora in the smear, treatment is necessary, but depending on the type of bacteria that have settled in the woman's vagina. Bacteria are:
– gonococci;
- streptococci;
– staphylococci;
– pneumococci;
-tetracocci.
What are the symptoms when the norm of cocci is exceeded?
Symptoms for a long time may not be. With the development of infection, the mucous membrane becomes dry, women are worried about itching and burning, and discharge appears. With inflammation of the prostate gland in men, the microflora is infected with gonococci, when taking a smear from the urethra.
Coccal bacteria or gonococci in a smear lead to the development of gonorrhea in men. The testicle swells, yellow or green contents are discharged from the penis, cutting pain appears when urinating. Treatment is necessary.
Why does a coccal infection develop?
The development of dysbacteriosis in the vagina is possible as a result of:
- prolonged use of antibiotics, self-medication with incorrect doses;
- development of genital infections;
- douche abuse. Useful microflora is washed out and nothing prevents bacteria;
- early onset of sexual activity, indiscriminate relationships;
- unprotected sex with a partner infected with gonococci;
- wearing synthetic underwear.
Cocci in a smear lead to an unpleasant odor, often thick and viscous, itching, burning, discomfort during sex. If, during examination and taking a smear, the gynecologist finds a conditionally pathogenic flora, then he makes a diagnosis - coccal flora.
What is the danger of cocci?
Cocci are bacteria in the form of rice grains. They are constantly present in the body, but when the norm is exceeded, they provoke the development of an inflammatory process. Coccal flora extends not only to the vagina, but also to the intestines, integuments of the skin.
The resettlement of bacteria in the secret of the vagina leads to a decrease and even cessation of estrogen production, lactobacilli multiply. The cessation of hormone production in the ovaries negatively affects the reproductive organs, resulting in miscarriages, miscarriage, and infertility. With a small number of cocci the immune system still functioning, bacteria do not multiply strongly, the microflora is kept in balance.
With the predominance of bacteria, inflammation develops and this is a reason to consult a doctor. Inflammation is promoted by:
- Hormonal disorders, the number of lactobacilli decreases, the regularity of the menstrual cycle is disturbed.
- Damage to the vaginal mucosa, leading to a weakening of its protective functions.
- Infectious diseases, the immune system weakens, nothing prevents the development of bacteria.
- Non-observance of personal hygiene, pathogenic bacteria begin to develop intensively in a nutritious and favorable environment.
Diagnosis of the disease
The diagnosis is made by the doctor during a conversation with the patient, the presence of symptoms and complaints. The main symptoms indicating the presence of coccal flora:
- pain, discomfort during intercourse;
- heaviness, pain in the lower abdomen;
- discomfort in the vagina, genitals;
- vaginal discharge, profuse and foul-smelling, purulent.
Vaginal discharge, when examined by a doctor, characteristically changes color, the mucous membrane is irritated, the vagina itself is inflamed, with a bright crimson, red tint. The discharge may contain particles of blood.
All these are symptoms of the acute stage of the disease. In the chronic form, they are less pronounced, smoothed. The doctor will make an accurate diagnosis after examining the smear, assessing its microflora. The smear after taking is applied to a glass slide, dried, stained by a laboratory assistant to count and identify microorganisms. With a large and abundant coccal flora, desquamated epithelium, a diagnosis is made - nonspecific colpitis.
How to treat cocci?
Treatment consists in taking drugs locally, 1-2 weeks. Betadine is often prescribed, but the drug has contraindications, itching, a disorder of the vaginal mucosa is possible. With increased hypersensitivity to the components, it is not recommended to treat the disease with Betadine. Also, during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, treatment should be carried out only under the supervision of the attending physician.
Coccal flora is treated with antibiotics: Clindamycin, Metronidazole. Antimicrobials, suppositories, sprays, vaginal tablets are prescribed. All treatment is aimed at restoring the microflora. It is possible to additionally prescribe immunostimulants in the form of suppositories to increase immunity and restore normal microflora.
To eliminate unpleasant symptoms, antihistamines are prescribed, to restore the vaginal flora - probiotics as a prophylaxis against thrush, other fungal diseases that can begin to develop after undergoing antibiotic treatment. Antibacterial therapy is prescribed only in advanced cases. If the doctor decides that it is possible to do without it, then he will prescribe douching with antiseptic solutions, for example, chlorhexidine, then inserting a tampon into the vagina soaked with lactobacilli to destroy the infection that takes place in the watered antiseptic solution. The course of the main treatment is up to 10 days. It is useful to carry out douching with the addition of a decoction of calendula, celandine, chamomile. When a coccal infection is detected, both partners are often examined, it is transmitted sexually.
Mucus is often observed in the smear when cocci are exceeded in the smear. Mucus is not pathological, but together with cocci indicates the development of colpitis or dysbacteriosis. Nonspecific colpitis occurs with hormonal imbalance, treatment should be aimed at correcting the hormonal background. Women aged and with menopause are shown drugs containing estrogen.
The coccal flora during pregnancy is dangerous, leads to the development of inflammation and becomes dangerous if left untreated, moves up, the development of the pathology to the uterus can harm the fetus, the doctor will prescribe treatment. For the baby, it should be as safe as possible.
How to prevent the development of coccal flora?
The microflora in the vagina will be normal if you lead a healthy lifestyle, avoid stress, observe intimate hygiene, use condoms during casual sex.
If a diagnosis is made - coccal flora, treatment should be timely. Microbes are sensitive to many drugs, so self-medication is unacceptable. Only a doctor will prescribe drugs based on the results of a smear. If the infection is not treated, then the disease becomes chronic, reproductive organs are affected, infertility develops.
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It is necessary to visit a gynecologist when discharge, other unpleasant symptoms appear: itching, burning. It is advisable to take a smear regularly, at least 1-2 times a year.
The coccal flora leads to an imbalance in the vagina. To normalize the flora is the main direction in treatment, prevention of possible relapses in the future.
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