Chronic vaginal infections can be difficult to treat. Many of the newer antifungals are ineffective against some strains of these infections.

Commonly requested products used to treat chronic or resistant vaginal infections include;

• Boric acid 300mg and 600mg pessaries.
• Amphotericin B 50mg Pessaries

About common vaginal infections

Vaginal infections occur when bacteria, fungi or viruses grow in and around the vaginal area. Anything that lowers the acidity of the vagina can cause a vaginal infection, while some other infections are transferred by sexual contact.

Vaginal infections are common. For example, around three-quarters of Australian women will have thrush in their lives.

Symptoms of common vaginal infections

It’s normal and healthy for a woman of childbearing age to have a vaginal discharge. The amount and colour of the discharge can change during your menstrual cycle, sexual excitement and pregnancy. However, vaginal discharge can also signal infection.

Symptoms of vaginal infection include:

• Unusual vaginal discharge (may differ in colour and smell unpleasant)
• Irritation and soreness of the vulva (the skin around the outside of the vagina) and vaginal itching
• Pain during sex
• Bleeding after sex
• Abdominal pains
• Redness, swelling, lumps, blisters or ulceration of the vulva or anus
• Pain when passing urine.

It’s important that you see your GP if you have any of these symptoms.

What are some causes of vaginal infections?

Certain types of bacteria live naturally inside the vagina. They produce acid, which helps to keep the environment at a certain pH to help your body fight infection. However, many factors such as hormonal changes, stress, or even using soap to clean the genital area can alter the acid levels in the vagina. This can mean that bacteria living naturally inside the vagina, which normally don’t cause problems, are able to grow and multiply and cause a vaginal infection.

A foreign body, such as a forgotten tampon, can also encourage bacterial growth and cause an infection. It can produce a life-threatening complication known as ‘toxic shock syndrome’, but this is rare.

Vaginal infections can also be caused through unprotected sexual intercourse or skin-to-skin contact. These are known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Diagnosis of common vaginal infections

If you have any symptoms, visit your GP who may refer you to a sexual health clinic for specialist treatment.

To order or for more information on Vaginal Infection Compounding, please speak to one of our pharmacists in-store or contact us.