What Are the Small Particles Found at the Vaginal Entrance?
Women may encounter various gynecological diseases in their daily lives, such as vaginitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and uterine fibroids. Once diagnosed with such conditions, immediate treatment is essential to avoid any potential impact on fertility. The appearance of small bumps around the vaginal opening, accompanied by itching symptoms, could be indicative of inflammation, necessitating prompt medical examination.
Vaginitis, or vaginal inflammation, refers to a group of conditions causing symptoms in the vulva and vagina, such as itching, burning pain, irritation, and abnormal discharge. In healthy women, the vagina possesses natural defensive mechanisms against pathogens due to its anatomical characteristics. These include the closure of the vaginal orifice, the closeness of the anterior and posterior vaginal walls, the proliferation and keratinization of vaginal epithelial cells under the influence of estrogen, and the maintenance of a balanced vaginal pH, which inhibits the growth of alkaline-tolerant pathogens. However, when the vagina's natural defenses are compromised, pathogens can easily invade, leading to vaginal inflammation.
Common types of vaginitis include:
1. Bacterial vaginosis: Characterized by a decrease in lactobacilli (which produce hydrogen peroxide) and an increase in endogenous mixed infections caused by Gardnerella and anaerobic bacteria.
2. Candidal vaginitis: Predominantly caused by Candida albicans, which thrives in acidic environments. Common predisposing factors include pregnancy, diabetes, extensive use of immunosuppressive agents, and broad-spectrum antibiotics.
3. Trichomonal vaginitis: Caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, which prefers a moist environment with a temperature range of 25°C to 40°C and a pH of 5.2 to 6.6. It is particularly prone to proliferating around menstruation.
4. Atrophic vaginitis: Common in postmenopausal women due to decreased ovarian function, lower estrogen levels, vaginal wall atrophy, thinner mucosal lining, increased vaginal pH, and reduced local resistance, allowing excessive growth or invasion of other pathogens, primarily aerobic bacteria.
5. Infantile vaginitis: Caused by poor development of the infant's external genitalia, low estrogen levels, and foreign bodies in the vagina, leading to excitation and infection. Common pathogens include Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus.
It is essential for women to be aware of these gynecological conditions and seek prompt medical attention if any symptoms arise. Timely diagnosis and treatment can effectively manage these diseases and minimize their impact on women's health and fertility.
