What do cocci mean in a smear in women - what indicators are considered normal?

Gram-variable coccobacilli are one of the bacterial species. It combines in large quantities two forms of microorganisms that are considered pathogenic. We are talking about cocci and bacilli. Most often, such microflora is represented by Haemophilus influenzae. Such a detection often indicates a hemophilic infection. This category also includes Gardenerella vaginalis, which becomes the causative agent of gardenerellosis, as well as the causative agent of chlamydia.

If coccobacillary flora is present in the smear, then we are talking about the presence of a disease in a woman that is spread sexually. In addition, such microflora may be a consequence of vaginal dysbiosis. In a woman’s body, such disruptions are practically normal if microorganisms living in the vagina multiply in large numbers, especially gram-variable coccobacilli, which are considered pathogenic.

What to do in such a situation? To get started, we recommend reading this article. This article describes in detail methods of controlling parasites. We also recommend that you consult a specialist. Read the article >>>

If the analysis showed a sexually transmitted disease, then the reason is clear. However, if an abundant coccobacillary component is found in bacterial vaginosis, then it is much more difficult to find out what the problem is.

Very often, sexually transmitted diseases are intertwined with vaginosis. If the norm of bacteria in a woman’s vagina is disturbed, then we are talking about a change in pH, therefore, the environment changes to alkaline or acidic. Both of these conditions indicate that the norm has been violated, which causes a change in protective functions. In this case, infections, including sexually transmitted infections, will penetrate into the woman’s body much more easily.

There are also the opposite cases, when pathogens of a sexually transmitted disease are found in the smear and a course of antibiotics is prescribed to combat them. As a result, the natural microflora is destroyed. Such treatment often causes the growth of large numbers of coccobacilli.

It is worth noting that in men the identification of such bacteria is difficult. The fact is that in most cases there are simply no manifestations of such a violation. As a result, a man can spread a sexually transmitted infection, especially when sexual intercourse is carried out without contraception.

Symptoms in men and women

Vaginal dysbiosis is accompanied by severe symptoms. Therefore, a smear is usually taken from women when characteristic signs occur. Typically, exacerbations occur when immunity decreases, so it is easier to detect infection in the female body.

Symptoms include:

• Discharge with an unpleasant odor.
• Burning sensation.
• Intense itching.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Frequent urination.

It is with such symptoms that a smear test for coccobacilli is performed in women. The procedure may be repeated over several days to monitor the progress of the infection or determine the effectiveness of therapy.

Due to its latent course, there are no symptoms of coccobacilli in men. The occurrence of intense symptoms means the development of an inflammatory process occurring in the urethra, rarely reaching the bladder.

Symptoms of an infectious process include:

• Pain when urinating.
• Burning, itching.
• Discharge from the urethra.
• Redness of tissues.

In severe cases, inflammation is accompanied by general symptoms. Patients develop a fever, weakness, nausea, and loss of appetite.

Decoding the analysis results

All microorganisms found in the smear are entered into the analysis form. The doctor’s task is to compare the values ​​with normal values.

Norms for women

Significant deviations from the norm are a sign of infectious and inflammatory processes. An accurate analysis is performed based on symptoms and the results of all tests.

Varieties of coccobacilli

What terms can be seen in the results of a flora smear? List:

• gram-variable coccobacilli - gardnerella, cocci, in combination with key cells indicate bacterial vaginosis;
• polymorphic microflora – the level of coccobacilli significantly exceeds the norm;
• Haemophilus influenzae is a pathogenic bacterium;
• Leptothrix is ​​an opportunistic bacterium.

Infections caused by coccobacilli are especially dangerous during pregnancy. If the balance of vaginal microflora is disturbed, the likelihood of miscarriage and premature birth, heavy uterine bleeding, and placental abruption increases.

Coccobacilli penetrate the placental barrier, which increases the chance of having a child with severe congenital diseases.

A slight excess of the norm of coccobacillary flora is often an individual feature of the organism. In this case, specific treatment is not required, especially if there are no complaints or characteristic symptoms.

Coccobacillary flora in men

Without knowing it, men are often carriers of infections caused by coccobacilli. Due to the anatomical and physiological characteristics of the disease, the disease occurs without pronounced symptoms.

Dangerous manifestations are itching in the groin area, purulent discharge from the urethra, discomfort when urinating, and fever. All of them are reasons to get tested.

Normally, a smear in men contains a small number of cocci, but when the immune system is weakened and the rules of personal hygiene are not observed, the bacteria begin to actively multiply.

Normal smear values ​​in men

Often, an increased content of coccobacilli in a smear in men indicates not only an infectious process or a venereal disease. The presence of pathogenic microorganisms can be a sign of allergies and even antibiotic treatment.

Additional tests

If coccobacilli are detected in a smear, additional tests are prescribed to assess the severity of the disease.

The reliability of the flora smear results depends, among other things, on proper preparation for the analysis. Details in the video:

Additional diagnostic methods:

• clinical analysis of urine and blood;
• colposcopy – detection of changes in the vaginal mucosa;
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs

It is difficult to detect chlamydia in a regular smear; a PCR test is prescribed to identify them.

Gram-variable coccobacilli in a smear: normal

A smear is a small scraping from the surface of the mucous membrane. This analysis is effective and after it is carried out, a complete “picture” of the possible disease is revealed. It is important to know that coccobacilli are not observed in a healthy person.

When diagnosing a smear, four factors :

1. Flat epithelium . If the condition of the epithelium is normal, then the conclusion should be o. This indicates that the number of cells is within the normal range, that is, 5 - 10. If the number of cells is more than 10, this indicates an inflammatory process. In case of a lack of epithelium in the body, there is a lack of female hormones;
2. Leukocytesresponsible for the destruction of bacteria. If a smear is taken from the vagina, then the permissible norm of leukocytes is 10, if from the cervix, then 30. If the number of leukocytes is exceeded, inflammatory processes are observed;
3. Lactobacilli or gram are positive rods that perform a protective role, which is to suppress pathogenic microbes. An unpleasant odor similar to rotten fish indicates a malfunction of lactobacilli;
4. Slime . It should be remembered that if the amount of mucus is small, then this is quite normal.

Microflora is normal in women

Normally, a woman’s vaginal microflora is represented by various microorganisms, like any microbiocenosis. It includes representatives of various groups. The relative content of bacteria varies depending on the age and hormonal background of the woman. Representatives can be either anaerobic or aerobic.

The main share of representatives are lactobacilli or Daderlein bacilli. They are able to produce lactic acid, which is necessary to maintain sufficient defenses in the body.

Their relative number reaches 97%. The rest of the group can consist of both opportunistic and pathogenic representatives. There are a large number of staphylococci, E. coli, enterococci, as well as bifidobacteria. In addition, it could be corynebacteria, etc.

Also, the vagina is often populated with transistor flora, which normally does not remain for a long time.

Much attention is paid to those representatives of the human microflora that are ablative parasites.

In some cases, according to the results of the smear, there is no need to use various medications, since the body can cope on its own with the disturbed microbiocenosis. At the same time, pathogens of sexually transmitted infections require mandatory treatment.

Diagnosis rules

The doctor can make a diagnosis based on the following indicators in the tests (cytology and general flora smear, Gram-stained).

1. Large amount of epithelium.
2. Key cells with coccobacilli associated with them (Gardnerella vaginalis, Mobiluncus spp., etc.) were found. Key cells are epithelial cells with gardnerella adhering to them.
3. Complete absence or single lactobacilli.
4. A large number of the following types of microorganisms: G. vaginalis, Bacteroides spp, Fusobacterium spp, Mobiluncus spp.
5. Absence or low concentration of polynuclear neutrophils (a type of white blood cell).

I would like to say separately about the last point. Bacterial vaginosis is generally not characterized by leukocytosis in a smear on flora from the vagina, urethra or cervix. An increase in the number of leukocytes does not occur due to the huge number of vaginal gardnerella, they can thus reduce the local immunity of a woman.

Meanwhile, a gynecologist, even during an examination in a chair, may suspect this disease in a woman. Its most obvious symptom is a fishy smell. This smell is produced by gardnerella. Add to this complaints of itching and unusual discharge, key cells in the smear, and we get typical bacterial vaginosis.

You should not rely solely on the results of a vaginal smear. Especially if there are no symptoms of the disease. Coccobacillary flora in moderate or scant quantities in the visual field (in the field of view of the clinician 0-1, 2, 3) can be detected before the onset of menstruation. This is fine. The squamous epithelium is usually normal.

Mixed flora is also diagnosed in the last days of menstrual bleeding. It is better to visit a gynecologist from 10 to 20 days of the cycle.

Is bacterial vaginosis sexually transmitted?

No, this is not a sexually transmitted disease (not an STD). However, during intimate contacts without barrier protection (condom), partners exchange microflora, which can sometimes provoke inflammatory processes in a woman. But opportunistic cocci, that is, transient (from the word transit - temporary) microflora in a partner, is not a reason for treating her partner.

Types of cocci

Streptococci

1. These are nonspecific microorganisms that are representatives of the normal microflora of the female body; some species have pathogenic properties and are capable of causing damage to various organs and systems.
2. It is a cocci of various sizes from small to large, mostly oval in shape.
3. In a woman’s vagina there can be several types , the main of which are viridans, group B, etc. Some of the types of streptococci in a woman’s vagina can only exhibit pathogenic properties.
4. With a normal amount they do not show any symptoms , but with an increase in content, pathogenic properties appear.

In this case, this condition is especially dangerous in pregnant women, since there is a possibility of infection of the newborn with these cocci as they pass through the birth canal.

The development of inflammatory processes in the vagina caused by streptococci is not always associated with sexual transmission. This is also possible if the state of local and general immunity is impaired, as well as the presence of knapsack surfaces on the skin, which provoke the proliferation of cocci.

Enterococci

This is a wide group of microorganisms that belong to the group of cocci.

1. They are representatives of conditionally pathogenic microflora , therefore, in a normal state of immunity they do not cause pathological conditions, but in the case of a decrease in protective forces, as well as an increase in the number, pathogenic reactions occur.
2. They are oval-shaped cocci , most often arranged in chains or pairs.
3. Their sizes are quite large . Their properties are similar to streptococci; for a long time they were not isolated as a separate species.
4. Normally, a moderate amount is concentrated on the mucous membranes of the digestive tract. Also, the pathogen is not picky about environmental conditions. It may be present in the vagina in small quantities, but when it increases, pathogenic properties appear.

Capable of causing an inflammatory reaction that will not be specific. At low concentrations in the area of ​​the vaginal mucosa, it can form lactic acid, which is necessary to maintain the desired composition of the environment.

Coccobacilli

1. This is one of the types of microorganisms that is part of the body's microflora. In this form, there was a union of two representatives of the microbiocenosis: cocci and bacilli.
2. In most cases, these representatives are pathogenic flora for the vagina.
3. The main ones are: chlamydia, Haemophilus influenzae and Garnerella.
4. Each of them causes its own disease with characteristics unique to it, and if the pathology is not treated, complications may arise.

If we consider this group as a whole, then thanks to some representatives the coccobacillary flora is always present in the vagina.

The norm is considered to be the absence or single representatives. The diagnosis of the inflammatory process is made if an abundance of flora is observed.

Let's look at the main types:

1. Chlamydia are intracellular microorganisms that have a round shape and very small sizes. For a woman’s body, they are an absolute pathogen. Their resistance to antibiotics is confirmed by the difficulty of access to drugs, as well as the presence of protective properties. They do not have flagella.
2. Gardnerella are also representatives of microbiocenosis; single cells can be present in the body. Thanks to the presence of devices, they are attached to the walls of the mucous membrane. They do not cause pronounced inflammation, but at the same time they greatly disrupt the composition of the flora.
3. Haemophilus influenzae is a representative of pathogenic flora. It can be found in isolated quantities on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, but when it gets into the vagina it causes an inflammatory process. It cannot normally live in the vaginal flora, since it mainly lives in red blood cells. It is a gram-negative coccobacilli.

Diplococcus

1. Diplococci are one of the representatives of the coccal flora; quite a lot of them have been isolated. One of the most dangerous are meningococci.
2. Normally, diplococcal bacteria may be present in a woman’s vagina; a change from a single quantity to an abundance subsequently causes the development of an inflammatory process or dysbacteriosis.
3. It is an oval-shaped coccus, which is paired with another.
4. In the process of its life, it begins to produce toxic substances that can damage the mucous membranes.
5. In addition, this type of pathogen is also represented by gonococcus, which is a pathogenic representative for the woman’s body.

Gonococci

These are bacteria that have a gram-negative structure.

1. They are an oval-shaped formation, in some cases reminiscent of beans or beans. Moreover, the microorganism is quite common among people.
2. It is not a representative of the normal microflora of the vagina, therefore, when it penetrates the mucous membrane, it causes an inflammatory process.
3. It exhibits extreme instability in the environment, so the risk of infection through contact and household contact is extremely low.
4. It is sensitive to the action of various chemical and physical factors, so it is quite easy to follow preventive measures to protect against the disease. They can appear in a smear within a few days after infection, but on average this period is about a week.

Infection is facilitated by adhesion factors, thanks to which the microorganism penetrates the vaginal mucosa. It can cause specific inflammatory processes in the vagina and cervix, as well as lead to the development of serious complications. Therefore, it is so important to detect it in flora smears and begin treatment.

Staphylococcus

1. This is a whole group of microorganisms, which are representatives of the opportunistic flora of the human body.
2. It includes several strains, each of which has certain qualities.
3. A large number of these pathogens normally live on the surface of the skin and do not cause any pathological conditions.
4. In addition, there are some groups of cocci from this species that can cause serious diseases, including those of the reproductive organs in women.
5. They have an unexpressed resistance to the action of various agents. It represents a round formation, which is normally located in the form of bunches of grapes and sowing various shapes of the structure.
6. In some cases, their cell wall can be quite thick and this is due to the content of a large amount of peptidoglycan, which exhibits protective properties. Its movement is difficult due to the absence of villi in the structure of aphid flagella.
7. Thanks to their facultative anaerobic properties, they are able to easily grow even in the most uncomfortable living conditions. It survives difficult conditions in the form of an L shape.

How to properly prepare for a smear test

Coccobacillary flora in a smear is detected using microscopic or bacteriological examination. To get a reliable result, you must adhere to certain rules:

• exclude sexual contact two days before taking a smear test;
• It is not recommended to take a smear immediately before the start of menstruation, or immediately after its end;
• You can’t take a bath the day before;
• exclude douching;
• stop using vaginal tablets and suppositories;
• During hygienic procedures, you cannot use hygiene products; you can only wash yourself with clean warm water;
• 3 hours before taking a smear, you should avoid visiting the toilet.

If all recommendations are followed, the smear result will be reliable and will allow the doctor to accurately establish a diagnosis and, if necessary, prescribe effective treatment. The coccobacillary flora may not be detected if the preparation for the analysis is improper, which will lead to further progression of the disease.

Where do cocci come from in a smear in women and what are they?

Cocci are bacteria that live in the human body, on his skin and mucous membranes: streptococci, staphylococci, etc. They colonize a person immediately after birth.

Some of the cocci are always dangerous and cause disease, others are opportunistic and provoke an inflammatory process only under special conditions.

The detected cocci flora in a smear in women requires treatment if gonococci are found. Bacteria that cause the sexually transmitted disease gonorrhea. This is a species of gram-negative diplococcus.

What does gram-negative and gram-positive mean? These definitions are often found in the results of gynecological tests. In fact, for the patient this does not make any fundamental difference. The only thing you need to know is that gram-negative bacteria are almost always pathogenic. And the gram method is simply a way of staining microorganisms to differentiate them in the laboratory. If they are stained and retain their color after washing, it means they are positive; no - negative.

How are cocci transmitted? Domestic and sexual contact. On the skin of every person there are billions of microorganisms that are easily transferred from one area to another. There are many bacteria in the intestines. From the rectum and anus they are easily transferred to the urethra and vagina. Since the mode of transmission is also sexual, in case of obvious illness, until recovery, it is better to postpone sex or use barrier contraception - a condom.

Decoding the smear

Most often, when obtaining results, you can come across several conclusions, the terms of which are not always clear:

• gram-variable flora - indicates the presence of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria in the smear (determined by staining);
• polymorphic flora - indicates the presence of bacteria and viruses contained in large quantities in the smear;
• moderate or significant coccobacillary flora indicates the presence of an infection, which can be determined using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or bacterial culture.

Knowing the correct definition of medical terms, you don’t have to worry while waiting for your next trip to the doctor.

A few words about coccal flora

Cocci in a smear never mean anything good and this is always not very good news. Cocci look quite peaceful - like balls or like coffee beans, but that’s where their “peacefulness” ends.

Staphylococcal infection is very common in the world and can be caused by several microorganisms. Fortunately, of the currently known 27 species of staphylococci, only 14 can be found on human mucous membranes and skin, of which only three can cause disease, but this happiness is very relative, since even three pathogenic species of staphylococci can cause quite a lot of very serious diseases. harm - even death.

When they talk about staphylococcus, most often we are talking about Staphylococcus aureus, and it is really dangerous because it is quite resistant to the action of antiseptics and even to the action of antibiotics. Staphylococcus aureus can cause more than a hundred very dangerous diseases, and absolutely everyone is at risk.

Staphylococcus aureus is not destroyed by pure ethyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or sodium chloride solution. This bacterium causes simple skin inflammations, pneumonia, endocarditis, and osteomyelitis - even death. Staphylococcus aureus is also capable of infecting the mucous membranes of the female reproductive system, and this infection is considered quite complex and unpleasant.

The presence of staphylococcus in a smear can be considered a conditionally pathogenic microflora: single staphylococci may be harmless, but an increase in their number requires immediate treatment.

Streptococcus, which is found in a smear in single quantities, also belongs to the opportunistic microflora, and treatment is necessary only if the number of streptococci increases.

Enterococcus is quite resistant to any influence, and its presence in a smear (especially in significant quantities) indicates inflammatory processes in the pelvic organs and genitourinary system. Although single enterococci in a smear can also be considered a conditionally pathogenic microflora, which requires careful observation and control.

There should be no gonococci in the smear! Gonococcus in a smear indicates not just an inflammatory process, but the presence of a sexually transmitted disease, that is, gonorrhea.

Coccal flora can only be treated with antibiotics. Moreover, it should be well understood that untreated cocci become resistant not only to a specific drug, but also to the entire group of drugs. Therefore, it is necessary to treat inflammatory processes caused by infection with coccal flora very carefully and complete the treatment, following all the recommendations of the attending physician.

To summarize, we can say that the rods in the smear are Doderlein rods, which are necessary to maintain a normal acidic environment in the vagina and to resist infections. The sticks disappear only when they are no longer able to cope with the inflammatory process. Cocci, although their danger is not equal, is a very undesirable element that may appear in the results of a smear and which at any time can cause an inflammatory process. Of particular danger as pathogenic microflora are gonococci that cause gonorrhea - a socially dangerous and sexually transmitted disease of the genital organs.

Additional tests

If a woman’s smear reveals abundant coccobacillary flora, it is necessary to additionally examine urine and blood. A comprehensive examination allows you to accurately determine the type and number of cocci and bacilli that inhabit a woman’s vagina.

If dysbiosis is suspected, it is also necessary to undergo medical imaging and, if necessary, undergo additional tests. To eliminate pathogenic flora in this case, oral antibiotics are most often prescribed, which can kill pathogenic flora.

After this, it is important to normalize the balance of microflora and take probiotics that restore the beneficial microflora of the vagina and intestines.

Causes of coccobacilli

Since infection with coccal microflora occurs through sexual contact, the main reason for its appearance in the body is unprotected sex.
Why do coccobacilli appear:

• promiscuity in sexual relations - in women, such a lifestyle often causes an imbalance in the microflora, and the active growth of pathogenic bacteria begins;
• improper douching procedure - beneficial flora is washed out;
• constant use of panty liners;
• underwear made of synthetic materials;
• failure to comply with hygiene rules;
• diabetes;
• intrauterine device is a common cause of imbalance in the vaginal microflora;
• changes in hormonal levels - the growth of coccobacilli is observed during pregnancy, during menopause;
• taking oral contraceptives, long-term therapy with antibacterial drugs.

Coccobacilli begin to actively multiply during pregnancy.
Coccobacillary flora appears with weakened immunity, vaginal dysbiosis, which develops against the background of diseases of the digestive system.

Sometimes sperm blocks the growth of beneficial lactobacilli, as a result of which the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria is activated.

Treatment of vaginal dysbiosis

The main thing here is an antimicrobial, antibacterial drug. Usually prescribed drugs containing metronidazole

.
For example, vaginal tablets "Trichopol"
.
If a woman is also diagnosed with candida (thrush), then together with an antifungal component, so that candidiasis can be immediately cured. For example, candles "NEO-PENOTRAN"
or
"Klion D"
.

Example of a treatment plan:

• Klion D for the night No. 10;
• Diflucan 150 mg No. 3 every 3 days.

During pregnancy and after childbirth during lactation, Hexicon

,
"Terzhinan"
or
"Polyzhinaks"
. Drugs for bacterial vaginosis are used topically, that is, vaginally. There is no point in taking metronidazole orally.

Treatment

The detection of cocci in a smear does not always require mandatory treatment. Everything will depend on the quantitative ratio, as well as on the type of representatives of the coccal flora.

With a slight increase in representatives of this group, which are classified as opportunistic and there are no symptoms, women do not resort to drug treatment. All you need to do is change your lifestyle and personal hygiene rules.

When a clinical picture of an inflammatory process caused by nonspecific cocci appears, it is necessary to use drugs internally, both in tableted systemic form and locally:

• Among systemic agents, the most popular are broad-spectrum drugs, such as: Metronidazole,
• Trichopolum and others. The course of treatment lasts on average 7 days.

Metronidazole

Trichopolum

Terzhinan

Polygynax candles

Betadine

Hexicon
If a specific infection caused by coccal flora is detected, treatment is selected taking into account sensitivity to the pathogenic microorganism:

• When identifying gonococci, these are drugs from the cephalosporin group: Cefixime, Ciprofloxacin, as well as the Ofloxacin group. To destroy gonococcus, a single use of an antibiotic in a loading dose is sufficient. After therapy, a control analysis is required.
• Treatment of chlamydia also includes taking systemic antibacterial agents. It is recommended to prescribe several drugs in combination. The groups of agents include the groups of tetracyclines, macrolides, and fluoroquinolones. The main ones are Azithromcin and Josamycin. The course lasts on average from 7 to 14 days. It is imperative that your sexual partner take the medications, as well as conduct a follow-up study no earlier than 2 months. After the main treatment, a dose of carpet and eubiotics is prescribed to restore normal microbiocenosis.
• Treatment of bacterial vaginosis in gynecology , which is caused by coccus gardnerella, is mandatory, since the process that occurs against the background of its existence can lead to the development of complications. Includes the removal of cocci with antibacterial agents, including Metronidazole and Clindamycin , as well as local forms such as cream or suppositories with a similar antibiotic.
• After a course of therapy, the vaginal flora is restored. For this, suppositories Acylact, Laktozhinal , etc.

Azithromycin

Ofloxacin

Ciprofloxacin

Cefixime Metronidazole

Clindamycin

Lactozhinal

Acylact

Danger level during pregnancy

The detection of gram-variable coccobacilli in a smear in pregnant women is not uncommon, which is due to hormonal imbalance and decreased immunity.

Treatment is required, otherwise there is a high risk of transmission of infection to the child (during passage through the birth canal), development of hypoxia in the fetus, serious inflammation of the uterus in a woman, including metroendometritis.

Therapy includes gentle antimicrobial drugs in the form of medications for external use: Klacid gel and Metronidazole in the form of suppositories.

The drug is available in the form of tablets, solution, gel and suppositories

After suppressing harmful bacteria, it is necessary to use products containing lacto- and bifidobacteria (suppositories and medicinal tampons).

Additionally, pregnant women are prescribed vitamin complexes (Elevit, Complivit mama) and eubiotics (Linex, Bifiform) for general strengthening of the body and prevention of dysbiosis.

We looked at what coccal, bacillary and coccobacillary flora are in a smear in women, what the treatment for such a condition is.

The detection of coccobacillary flora indicates serious problems in the female reproductive system.

The presence of infectious diseases or dysbiosis of the genital organs is a reason for immediate examination and treatment.

If you consult a gynecologist in a timely manner, you can successfully get rid of pathogenic flora within a month without negative consequences.

Causes of cocci

There are many reasons for the appearance of cocci in a smear in women. These include:

1. Improper or poor hygiene. Many women wash their vaginas incorrectly, which can cause problems with cleanliness. Washing should be done towards the anus, and not vice versa. During procedures, it is recommended to use non-aggressive products with the correct pH balance (soap away!).
2. Presence of promiscuity. Casual partners can be a source of various infections, not only coccal ones. It is better to practice sexual acts only with a trusted partner. If this is not possible, you should definitely protect yourself.
3. Hormonal imbalance.
4. Unconventional sex with an infected person. Many people believe that you can only get infected through vaginal sex, but this is not true. It is quite easy to become infected through anal or oral sexual intercourse, since most people do not use protection during this practice.
5. Masturbation with dirty objects or hands.
6. The woman began sexual activity too early. Until the moment of full puberty, the microflora has not yet had time to fully form and may not be prepared for sexual contact.
7. Long-term treatment with antibiotics, which was not agreed upon with a specialist. Such drugs can clean out not only negative, but also positive flora. Women who like to self-medicate do not think about the need to simultaneously restore it with special means. As a result of improper therapy, the flora becomes vulnerable to infections.
8. Frequent douching, especially at home.

Often, against the background of damage by various cocci, the condition of the vaginal flora worsens due to the entry of other third-party organisms into it. This is due to the fact that the flora has become defenseless and has lost its barrier function.

Ignoring pathology: what are the consequences?

Any disease requires qualified treatment. Otherwise, ignoring the disease can lead to various complications.

For example, women who refuse treatment for coccobacilli risk pyelonephritis or cystitis. This is due to the close location of the vagina to the urethra. This way, bacteria can quickly travel to the kidneys or bladder.

In men, gram-variable coccobacilli can cause urethritis, which contributes to discomfort when urinating.

What are coccobacilli?

The name of these microorganisms speaks for itself. They are a combination of cocci and bacilli. The most common of these are chlamydia, gardnerella and hemophilus influenzae.

Each bacteria has its own purpose. Cocci are spherical bacteria. The bacilli are rod-shaped. And coccobacilli are a cross between cocci and bacilli. Sometimes one individual of coccobacilli is spherical, while the other is rod-shaped.

It is possible to defeat parasites!

Antiparasitic Complex® - Reliable and safe removal of parasites in 21 days!

• The composition includes only natural ingredients;
• Does not cause side effects;
• Absolutely safe;
• Protects the liver, heart, lungs, stomach, skin from parasites;
• Removes waste products of parasites from the body.
• Effectively destroys most types of helminths in 21 days.

There is now a preferential program for free packaging. Read expert opinion.

Interesting to know:

Prevention

To prevent imbalances in the microflora of the genital tract, it is necessary to eliminate, if possible, all provoking factors:

• Eliminate hormonal imbalance (HRT for menopause, oral contraceptives as indicated).
• Maintain daily intimate hygiene, as well as during menstruation and sex. Avoid douching without a doctor's prescription.
• Use condoms.
• Lead a healthy lifestyle, be active, play sports or exercise, eat right, avoid frequent use of antibiotics, protect your body from infections.
• One of the methods of prevention is also regular visits to the gynecologist and treatment of chronic diseases not only of the reproductive system, but also of other organs.

Bibliography

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Brucellosis. Parasites. Link
• Corbel MJ Parasitic diseases // World Health Organization. Link
• Young EJ Best matches for intestinal parasites // Clinical Infectious Diseases. — 1995. Vol. 21. - P. 283-290. Link
• Yushchuk N.D., Vengerov Yu.A. Infectious diseases: textbook. — 2nd edition. - M.: Medicine, 2003. - 544 p.
• Prevalence of parasitic diseases among the population, 2009 / Kokolova L. M., Reshetnikov A. D., Platonov T. A., Verkhovtseva L. A.
• Helminths of domestic carnivores of the Voronezh region, 2011 / Nikulin P. I., Romashov B. V.

An article for patients with a doctor-diagnosed disease. Does not replace a doctor's appointment and cannot be used for self-diagnosis.

The best stories from our readers

Topic: Parasites are to blame for all troubles!

From: Lyudmila S. ( [email protected] )

To: Administration Noparasites.ru

Not long ago my health condition worsened. I began to feel constant fatigue, headaches, laziness and some kind of endless apathy appeared. Problems also appeared with the gastrointestinal tract: bloating, diarrhea, pain and bad breath.

I thought it was because of the hard work and hoped that it would go away on its own. But every day I felt worse. The doctors couldn’t really say anything either. Everything seems to be normal, but I feel like my body is not healthy.

I decided to go to a private clinic. Here I was advised, in addition to general tests, to get tested for parasites. So in one of the tests they found parasites in me. According to doctors, these were worms, which 90% of people have and almost everyone is infected, to a greater or lesser extent.

I was prescribed a course of antiparasitic medications. But it didn’t give me any results. A week later, a friend sent me a link to an article where some parasitologist shared real tips on fighting parasites. This article literally saved my life. I followed all the advice that was there and after a couple of days I felt much better!

Digestion improved, headaches went away and the vital energy that I so lacked appeared. To be sure, I took the tests again and no parasites were found!

Anyone who wants to cleanse their body of parasites, no matter what types of these creatures live in you, read this article, I’m 100% sure it will help you! Go to article>>>

Still have questions? Ask them in our Anonymous group on VK

How to get rid of parasites in a week. The answer is here!

A reliable and effective remedy for combating worms. Removes all parasites in 21 days.

Go to website

Reviews

Read online

Symptoms that 100% indicate parasites! Take the Test.

How to rid your body of life-threatening parasites before it’s too late!

Read more

Website

To get a consultation

The doctor tells how to quickly get rid of parasites for adults and children!

A parasitologist explains what effective methods exist to combat helminths.

More details

Read completely

Comments

Search for cures for parasites

Other tests

We recommend reading

Smear for chlamydia mycoplasma: where and how to take it, preparation features

02.07.202002.07.2020ecoliv94

Chlamydia trachomatis: what is it in women, igg analysis, treatment methods

01.07.202001.07.2020ecoliv94

Leishmania braziliensis: description, life cycle, routes of infection and treatment

18.06.202018.06.2020ecoliv94

Isospora belli: description, life cycle, routes of infection and treatment methods

18.06.202018.06.2020ecoliv94

Diagnostic methods

Detection of cocci in the vagina in women is possible using three laboratory tests: a simple smear for flora, the Femoflor test modified by Femoflor 8 (10) or Femoflor 16 (17) and bacterial culture.

Most often, a simple smear is used in women. Material for research is collected from 2 or 3 points: the mucous membrane of the posterior vaginal vault, the cervix and sometimes the urethra.

Before taking the material, you should not douche, use suppositories with antiseptics, take antibiotics, or have sex, as the result will be distorted.

The biomaterial is applied to sterile slides and examined under a microscope. If necessary, culture is done on nutrient media to determine sensitivity to antibiotics.

Sometimes examining only smears for flora is not enough to make a diagnosis, so they resort to additional examinations (Femoflor, real-time PCR, ultrasound, PAP test, colposcopy, etc.).

What a smear test can show

The study of flora involves the selection of material by a specialist both directly from the vagina and from the urethra. Macroscopic diagnosis usually reveals the following cell types in a smear:

• Flat epithelium. This cell type forms the entire inner vaginal surface. Detection of excessive amounts of this cell type may indicate the presence of urethritis or vaginitis. A lack of squamous epithelium almost certainly indicates that there is a deficiency in progesterone synthesis.
• Leukocytes. They are a kind of “watchmen” that resist pathogenic microorganisms. The norm for their presence is no more than ten pieces for the vagina, and no more than thirty for the cervix. If the leukocyte count is higher, then the development of inflammatory pathologies (vaginitis or cervicitis) can be assumed. In this case, phagocytosis is usually present - the devouring of pathological agents by leukocytes.
• Slime. It is a secretion of the cervix or vaginal glands. A moderate value in the analysis is normal. Mixed abundant mucus quite often indicates dysbiosis.
• Vaginal sticks. Usually this element (gram-positive cells) constitutes normal microflora. However, sometimes there is a lack of them, which means the presence of bacterial vaginosis.

As you can see, any deviation from the normal value of any of the microflora indicators can indicate the development of a particular pathology. Therefore, even healthy women are recommended to periodically undergo a smear test. This makes it possible to identify pathologies at the earliest stages of their development, when treatment may still be quite simple.

Mixed flora in a smear: what does it mean, how to treat?

Every visit by a woman to a gynecologist necessarily includes certain tests, and the detected mixed flora in the smear shows certain imbalances between beneficial and harmful microorganisms.

The normal flora is 95% lactobacilli, and cocci and bacilli, which pose a potential health threat, account for the remaining 5%.

If such proportions are violated, the risk of various diseases increases significantly.

Mixed microflora is especially dangerous for pregnant women, so if it is detected during such periods, it is recommended to undergo comprehensive treatment.

What does mixed flora mean on a smear?

Studies of smear analysis for flora are correlated with quantitative changes in blood composition.

Microscopic examination identifies lactobacilli, pathogenic coccal bacteria, bacilli that provoke the development of diseases, and shows the risks of oncological changes.

These studies determine the composition of the microflora of the mucous membranes of the woman’s genital organs.

At the same time, mixed flora is characteristic of menopause, menstruation, sexually transmitted diseases, the onset of puberty, and ovarian hyperfunction.

The predominance of lactobacilli characterizes a healthy microflora. If the smear contains most of the lactobacilli, epithelial cells, mucus, and normal leukocytes, then this indicates the absence of inflammatory processes and healthy immunity.

With moderate mucus and normal leukocytes, an increase in the number of cocci and fungi may be observed. This situation increases the risk of inflammatory processes.

With a significant increase in leukocytes, mucus and epithelial inclusions, we can talk about pathologies.

In the worst case, lactobacilli are detected in small quantities, and leukocytes are significantly higher than normal.

At the same time, pathogenic bacteria and fungi make up the majority of the microflora. This situation indicates inflammation and requires immediate treatment.

Based on the results of the analysis, the attending physician identifies the causative agent of the disease and prescribes appropriate treatment.

For example, for candidiasis, antifungal drugs are used, and in cases of diseases caused by gonococci, they need to be treated with antibacterial agents.

Treatment is prescribed not only based on the results of a smear test for flora, but after a comprehensive study of urine and blood.

In any case, the mixed microflora identified during the analysis of the smear results requires careful attention and consultation with a specialist.

Symptoms of diseases and causes of mixed flora

In mature women with an active sexual life, and sometimes in girls even before the onset of puberty, a mixed flora is observed.

Such a diagnostic picture may indicate sexually transmitted diseases and inflammation of the genitourinary system.

Pathological conditions are accompanied by certain symptoms. Itching, mucous discharge with an unpleasant odor and a burning sensation may indicate colpitis (inflammation of the vagina) or bacterial vaginosis.

These diseases are caused by pathogenic bacteria.

Moreover, despite the common origin, one disease goes away with an increase in the number of leukocytes, while the other does not.

However, in both cases, the disease provokes an increase in the number of pathogenic microorganisms.

The predominance of pathogenic flora in the female body can be caused by several reasons:

• the use of antibiotics for a long time significantly weakens the immune system and destroys beneficial bacteria;
• excessive douching, washing away normal microflora, provokes the development of harmful microorganisms;
• hormonal contraceptives disrupt the microflora, significantly changing the concentration of leukocytes and lactobacilli;
• intrauterine devices negatively affect the balance of vaginal microflora.

To determine a more precise cause, comprehensive additional studies are carried out, the totality of which makes it possible to make the correct diagnosis and prescribe optimal treatment.

Rules for taking a smear and deciphering the results

A smear in women may reveal scanty or abundant mixed flora. Deviations in indicators are often directly related to violations of the rules for preparing for a smear test.

All women are recommended to visit the gynecological office once a year and have a smear done. During pregnancy and gynecological diseases, such procedures are recommended to be done more often.

On the eve of visiting a doctor, you need to prepare in a certain way:

• visit the toilet two hours before, since urination is contraindicated during this period;
• before the procedures, you should simply wash yourself with warm water without soap;
• You cannot take a smear test during menstruation;
• abstain from sex for two days;
• do not use tampons, vaginal suppositories, or douche.

Although deciphering smear results is the responsibility of the doctor, understanding what certain indicators may mean is important for any woman.

Healthy genital organs are characterized by a predominance of lactobacilli, and if their number decreases, the risk of damage by pathogenic microorganisms increases.

Video:

A large number of leukocytes is an indicator of the inflammatory process. However, the norms for the vagina, urethra and cervix are different.

A significant excess of the indicators will be the basis for additional research.

The number of red blood cells increases during menstruation, damage to the mucous membrane and inflammatory processes.

Normally, upon microscopic examination, their number does not exceed several units. A small amount of mucus is also common in the vagina and cervix.

The results of a smear for mixed flora are presented in encrypted form. It will be useful for any woman to know what each Latin designation means.

The letter “V” represents the vagina, and the numbers next to this letter clarify the smear readings.

Similarly, the numerical values ​​clarify the readings of the letters “U” - “urethra” and “C” - “cervix”.

The Latin letter “L” stands for leukocytes, “Ep” stands for squamous epithelium. The letters “gn” and “trich” indicate the presence of gonococci and trichomoniasis bacteria.

The abbreviation "abs" refers to the absence of bacteria and infections in the smear examination.

Thus, the analysis of a smear for mixed flora has certain standards, which are presented in the following form.

Leukocytes: (U) 0-5 in the field of view under a microscope, (V) 0-10, (C) 0-30. Mucus: (V) and (C) - “moderate”, and in the case of (U) - “moderate” or “absent”.

Epithelium. (V, C, U) – “moderate”. In all cases, an increase in these indicators indicates inflammatory processes.

Gram-positive rods (gr.+). (V) – “large amount”, (C) – “absent”, (U) – “absent”.

This picture indicates a healthy body, good immunity and the normal state of the microflora.

Gram-negative rods (gr.-). (V), (C), (U) – should be absent everywhere, and opposite values ​​indicate inflammatory processes within these organs and dysbiosis.

Correct interpretation of a smear requires a certain qualification of a doctor, and in some cases repeated examination.

In any situation, it is better to be observed and treated by one doctor. This will ensure the accuracy of the diagnosis and a positive therapeutic result.

Types of microflora in the vagina

During the examination, laboratory assistants identify squamous epithelium, Dederlein bacilli, cocci, leukocytes, and erythrocytes in a smear for flora. An increase in the number of certain microorganisms indicates the development of various diseases or pathological processes.

Since the therapy will be different, it is important to correctly determine what predominates: polymorphic rod flora in the smear, normal or mixed.

Mixed flora

When performing bacteriological culture, the results are considered only in relation to the examination data. Additionally, a smear for oncocytology is performed for early detection of cervical cancer (regardless of the presence of complaints).

Rod flora in a smear

Microscopic examination is carried out to determine the number of beneficial and pathogenic bacteria, rods and other organisms in the vagina. Based on the results of the analysis, it is determined whether there are problems with the reproductive system, individual organs, or whether the patient is healthy.

Small rod flora indicates the presence of gram-negative bacteria. They reduce the body's defenses. As a result, the immune system cannot suppress the vital activity of pathogenic representatives on its own. An abundant content of rod flora indicates the development of inflammation.

Patients are recommended to undergo complex treatment, which includes drugs to restore normal vaginal microflora.

Rod-shaped organisms also indicate the development of gardnerellosis and dysbacteriosis. Treatment in this case is selected individually, taking into account the characteristics of the clinical picture.

Dederlein rods (gram-positive) are included in the useful category. These are lactobacilli, and the smear should contain at least 95% (10 7 CFU). They are responsible for creating an acidic environment on the vaginal wall, necessary for the fertilization process to occur. These microorganisms ensure the cleanliness of the genital tract. Thanks to them, the pathogens of trichomoniasis and gonorrhea do not have the opportunity to reproduce.

What else can be found in a smear?

When performing bacterioscopy, it is possible to assess the biocenosis. This test is also called a staphylococcus smear.

But at the same time, it is possible to identify pseudomycelium, mixed microflora, fungal spores, enterobacteria, streptococci, Haemophilus influenzae, corynebacteria are determined. They are potential causative agents of vaginitis, vulvitis and vulvovaginitis.

Streptococcus agalactia and Streptococcus pyogenes are dangerous species. Regardless of the quantity of them found during culture, treatment must be prescribed.

The norm for opportunistic microorganisms in the vaginal environment is no more than 104 CFU (colony-forming units). If the content is elevated, inflammation cannot be ruled out; neutrophilic leukocytes may be present (more than 5 per field of view).

Mixed flora in a smear: what does an imbalance of microorganisms indicate?

During a laboratory examination of a smear from the genital organs, the results sometimes reveal a mixed flora.

Then the presence of an inflammatory focus is confirmed, pathogenic microorganisms that provoke its development are identified. The pathology is detected immediately, so the doctor can immediately prescribe treatment.

Mixed flora in a smear - what does it mean?

Laboratory testing allows not only to confirm the presence of microbes or fungi, but also indicates what percentage of healthy flora and what percentage of pathogenic flora is contained in the smear. When an infectious disease develops, a disorder of the acid-base balance is observed - the acidic environment is replaced by an alkaline one.

When visiting a gynecologist or urologist, a smear is always taken in order to see the full picture of the development of pathology based on the test results obtained. If materials were collected from the vagina or urethra, then there is a suspicion of inflammatory processes in the genitals. Before this, characteristic signs of the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in excess usually appear. First, pain appears in the lower abdomen, the color of the discharge changes, and an unpleasant odor appears. Sometimes the disease is accompanied by itching and burning in the genital area.

In women, the risk of developing pathology increases during the climatic period, during pregnancy. Taking hormonal medications also affects the acid-base balance.

Only a doctor should make a diagnosis based on laboratory test results, taking into account all the patient’s symptoms and complaints.

What it is?

When mixed flora is found in a smear, this indicates an imbalance of pathogenic and beneficial microorganisms. Normally, biological material contains particles of squamous epithelium, lactobacilli, white blood cells and many other beneficial bacteria.

If the body is completely healthy, 90-95% of the biological material will be beneficial flora, and the remaining 5% will be pathogenic microorganisms, represented by cocci and rods.

They do not harm a healthy person, but as soon as the number of pathogenic bacteria increases, there is a risk of getting sick. When mixed flora is detected in a smear, this indicates an increase in the number of pathogenic microorganisms that provoke the development of infection. In a normal state, they are practically impossible to detect. If test results confirm that an inflammatory process has begun in the body, urgent treatment is necessary. Only a specialist can prescribe it.

If it is detected in a cytology smear

This analysis allows us to identify the state of the microflora of the genital organs of a man or woman. If a smear is taken from the urethra or vagina, this allows you to examine the volume of cells and identify whether they belong to pathogenic or beneficial flora.

A laboratory cytology test has more possibilities than conventional tests. When processing biological material, attention is paid to epithelial cells and their condition.

If a mixed flora is detected, this occurs due to the comparison and detection of the inflammatory process and substandard formations. This means that the acid-base balance in the body is already disturbed, and the growth of pathogenic microorganisms is progressing. The difference between the tests is that, based on the results, a specialist can determine not only the changes themselves, but also their causes, and determine what nature of the infection is spreading in the body.

Mixed flora in men

With the help of a bacteriological smear, which is taken from the urethra, hidden forms of infection can be detected. It is for this purpose that the analysis is done. If mixed flora is detected, this indicates that pathogenic bacteria are actively multiplying, provoking inflammatory processes in the body.

Mixed flora often indicates the likelihood of developing prostatitis or urethritis, sexually transmitted diseases. If a laboratory test reveals that the white blood cell count has increased, this is considered a clear sign of inflammation. Then there is a possibility that gonorrhea, chlamydia, ureaplasmosis, and trichomoniasis are progressing in the body. The final diagnosis is made only by a specialist based on tests and symptoms of the disease.

If it is found in women

When test results reveal a mixed flora in females, this indicates:

• the beginning of puberty in girls;
• development of sexually transmitted diseases;
• entry of the organism into the climatic period;
• increased functioning of the female reproductive glands;
• the initial stage or end of the menstrual cycle.

To determine the exact reason for the presence of mixed flora in biological material, you need to know the volume of leukocytes present there and take into account auxiliary factors.

The only undeniable fact is the imbalance between pathogenic bacteria and beneficial ones. Only a gynecologist can decipher a smear; based on his experience, he knows better what the true cause of the pathology is.

Pathogenic flora during pregnancy

The discovery of mixed flora in pregnant women is explained primarily by the fact that each organism is individual - it has its own microflora characteristics. Pregnancy often provokes an increase in the number of pathogenic microorganisms, especially fungal ones, which leads to the development of candidiasis (thrush) and bacterial vaginosis. This occurs due to an imbalance in the acid-base balance.

Drastic changes also occur due to infection, exacerbation of chronic diseases, and changes at the hormonal level. Planning a pregnancy must certainly include a preliminary consultation with a gynecologist with certain tests. If this is not done, the opportunistic vaginal flora will be transformed into pathogenic, and an inflammatory process will begin to develop. It is always better to prevent a disease than to treat it.

Features of analysis during pregnancy

Many women, especially those who are pregnant for the first time, are afraid of taking a smear from the vagina for microscopic examination.

They think that such manipulations will harm the unborn child, but this is a mistaken opinion. The study is required during registration and in the third trimester of pregnancy.

Additionally, the doctor may prescribe a diagnosis if the following problems are suspected:

• frozen pregnancy;
• spontaneous miscarriage;
• polyhydramnios;
• infection of the fetus.

No special preparation for analysis is required. The smear is taken during a standard gynecological examination in a chair.

Beforehand, a woman must avoid intimate intimacy for two days; she must not install vaginal suppositories, douche, or use local disinfectants. In the morning before the examination, you need to perform genital hygiene with warm water without soap.

To collect a smear, the doctor uses sterile or disposable instruments. Material obtained from the side wall of the vagina or cervix is ​​sent for examination under a microscope.

Decoding includes the provision of data on the composition of the microflora (the number of beneficial and pathogenic bacteria), the color of the resulting sample, the presence or absence of odor, mucus. The Gram staining technique is mainly used.

Since the body of pregnant women undergoes many changes associated with hormonal fluctuations, some deviations in the results obtained are allowed.

During pregnancy, a smear reveals up to 10 leukocytes per field of view without an accompanying inflammatory process. The level of lactobacilli may decrease slightly. If obvious deviations are detected, therapy is prescribed taking into account the identified causative agent of the disease.

Deviations in a flora smear or bacteriological culture are not an indication for termination of pregnancy. The issue of preserving the fetus is always decided individually, taking into account the results of other examination methods (ultrasound, amniocentesis).

Mixed flora is a disruption of the normal balance of the vaginal environment between beneficial and pathogenic microorganisms. In order to prevent the development of a serious gynecological disease, it is necessary to undergo treatment prescribed by a doctor, and for preventive purposes, visit a female specialist once a year.