Infections of Vagina/Vulva

Question 1

normal vaginal flora in reproductive-age women

Answer 1

• multiple aeronic, facultative anaerobic, obligate anaerobic species (anaerobes predominant)
• vaginal pH 3.5 - 4.5 (lactic acid from glycogen metabolism or lactobacillus)

Question 2

normal vaginal flora in prepubertal and postmenopausal women

Answer 2

• low glycogen content, thus lower prevalence of Lactobacillus > less acid
• vaginal pH >4.5

Question 3

Factors that can alter vaginal ecology

Answer 3

• menstrual cycle
• antibiotics
• douching
• unprotected sex
• lubricating gels
• intravaginal meds