What are the symptoms for DIV?
DIV is typically characterized by:
- Excessive yellow discharge. It is very sticky and can dry and harden on the vulva. It typically has no odor.
- In areas where the discharge dries, there can be redness, inflammation and itching.
- It can be a cause of painful intercourse.
What causes DIV?
There are three possible causes of DIV. Experts believe it might be related to an infection of unknown organism, it might be because of an estrogen deficiency or it might be an early form of skin disease called erosive lichen planus.
How is DIV diagnosed?
A DIV diagnosis can be made by your OB/GYN. The discharge is examined under a microscope and if it is DIV there should be numerous white blood cells as well as immature cells of the vagina called parabasal cells. The pH balance is usually 5.5 or higher. And cultures often show an increase in staph or strep bacteria and no lactobacilli (good bacteria).
How is DIV treated?
- Antibiotic therapy that could include antibiotics clindamycin and metronidazole. These come as a cream or suppository that is inserted into the vagina every night for about fourteen days.
- Intravaginal hydrocortisone alone, or with clindamycin is another treatment option.
- A compounded cream of clindamycin, hydrocortisone and estrogen is another treatment option.
If you have any of the symptoms listed here, see your OB/GYN for a consultation and diagnosis.