Should I take antibiotics if the bacterial culture of vaginal discharge is positive?

Whether to take antibiotics for positive bacterial culture of vaginal discharge depends on the specific pathogen and symptoms. If it is clearly an infection such as bacterial vaginitis, antibiotics should usually be used according to medical advice; If asymptomatic or non pathogenic bacterial colonization occurs, medication may not be necessary. Positive bacterial culture indicates the presence of bacteria, but it is necessary to distinguish between pathogenic bacteria and normal bacterial populations. Common pathogenic bacteria such as gardnerella and anaerobes may cause leucorrhea odor, itching or abnormal color. At this time, doctors may prescribe metronidazole tablets, clindamycin phosphate vaginal gel or tinidazole suppository and other antibiotics. The medication needs to be fully treated to prevent recurrence, and sexual contact should be avoided until the follow-up examination turns negative. If the culture results in coagulase negative staphylococci and other pathogenic bacteria without discomfort, it may be related to an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota. Lactic acid bacteria vaginal capsules can be used to regulate the microbiota without the need for routine use of antibiotics.

In special circumstances, if Group B streptococcus is detected during pregnancy, prophylactic use of penicillin antibiotics is necessary during delivery even if there are no symptoms. Immunodeficiency patients or repeatedly infected individuals need further drug sensitivity testing to guide medication. Self misuse of antibiotics may lead to increased symptoms of drug resistance, fungal infections, or dysbiosis.

Regardless of whether medication is used or not, it is recommended to re-examine the culture to confirm the efficacy. Cotton underwear should be chosen in daily life, excessive vaginal washing should be avoided, and cleanliness should be paid attention to before and after sexual intercourse. If adverse reactions such as rash and diarrhea occur or symptoms worsen after medication, timely follow-up visits should be made to adjust the plan. People with basic diseases such as diabetes need to control blood sugar synchronously to reduce the risk of infection.