Every year a woman must undergo a gynecological examination and undergo the necessary tests. One of the important analyzes through which it is possible to determine the composition of the flora and identify possible pathogenic microorganisms is. The results may contain opportunistic and pathogenic bacteria - cocci.
Cocci are spherical bacteria. Their diameter is 0.2-4.5 microns. They are localized not only in the respiratory tract, but also on the mucous membrane of the genital organs. Some types of cocci are constantly present in the body and are opportunistic. When favorable conditions are created, they can cause an inflammatory process.
There are several varieties of coccal flora:
- . They cause vaginal dysbiosis and inflammatory processes in the genitals.
- . It is an opportunistic gram-positive bacterium. It is found on the mucous membrane of the genital tract quite often. With the rapid proliferation of staphylococci, disorders of the genitourinary system are observed.
- Enterococci. These are representatives of the intestinal microflora. Their presence in the smear indicates non-compliance with personal hygiene rules.
- Gonococci. They affect the genitourinary system and are also detected in a smear. In women, gonococci provoke the development of cervicitis and salpingitis. The inflammatory process develops very quickly.
In addition to the above cocci, a woman’s smear may contain coccobacilli and diplococci. Coccobacillary flora indicates bacterial vaginosis and.Diplococci are a type of meningococcal and pneumococcal infections.
Causes and symptoms
In the acidic environment provided by bifidumbacterin, Doderlein bacilli and peptostreptococci, pathogenic microorganisms die. When the body's protective functions weaken, cocci actively multiply. This increases the acidity of the vagina.
Reproduction of cocci in the vagina may be due to the following reasons:
- Uncontrolled use of antibiotics.
- Sexually transmitted infectious diseases.
- Frequent douching.
- Lack of hygiene.
- Promiscuous sex life.
- Wearing synthetic underwear.
Cocci can appear in girls who began to be sexually active early and often change sexual partners. Often the cause of the development of pathogenic microflora can be masturbation, which involved the use of undisinfected objects or dirty hands.
The following symptoms may indicate the appearance of cocci:
- Increased mucous secretions.
- Burning and itching in the genital area.
- Unpleasant smell.
Over time, the viscosity and thickness of the mucus increases. It can change shade from white to yellowish. If you have some of these symptoms, you should contact a gynecologist and have a test. Based on the results of the analysis, treatment will be prescribed.
Cocci are rare in men. If you experience pain during urination or yellow or green discharge from the penis, you should consult a urologist. Such symptoms may indicate gonococci or trichomonas.
To identify pathogenic microflora in the vagina, cervical canal and urethra, a flora smear is taken. This is a laboratory microscopic examination that allows you to detect fungus, cocci, trichomonas, lactobacilli.
Indications for taking a smear for flora are:
- mucous or milky vaginal discharge
- itching and burning
- lower abdominal pain
- change of sexual partner
In addition, tests are taken when planning pregnancy, as well as long-term use of antibiotics.
To obtain reliable results, you need to prepare for testing.
Two days before taking a smear, you should avoid sexual intercourse, do not use vaginal medications, and do not douche.Immediately before the examination, do not wash or urinate. After menstruation, tests are taken 4-5 days.
Diagnostics and norm
A smear for flora is taken by a gynecologist. The woman sits in a gynecological chair and places her feet on special supports. Next, the genitals are treated with antiseptics. Then the material is introduced and collected from the posterior wall of the vagina. After this, the material is applied to a glass slide and distributed evenly with streak movements across the glass.
The material taken is sent to the laboratory for further research. Next, the smear is stained using the Gram method, thanks to which the type of bacteria and the composition of the microflora can be determined.
A smear for examination is taken from three areas: the urethra, the vaginal walls and the cervical canal. The infectious and inflammatory process is interconnected, so a smear is taken from three areas. This procedure is painless and takes only a few minutes.Normally, the level of alkaline balance should be in the range of 5.5-7.If the number of cocci exceeds the specified range, then this indicates an infectious-inflammatory process.
The fact that the vaginal microflora has an increased alkaline environment is indicated by a pH of more than 7.5.
Cocci are divided into gram-positive and gram-negative. The presence of gram-positive bacteria (streptococci and staphylococci) in the smear is allowed. Gram-negative cocci provoke the development of many diseases.
Cocci in a smear: what their presence indicates
A smear of vaginal contents for flora is mandatory, and sampling is carried out at every gynecological examination. The results allow us to identify possible pathogens.
If the environment in the vagina is alkaline and the pH is very different from the norm, then lactobacilli die and a large number of cocci take their place. This indicates not only an inflammatory process, but also the development of dysbiosis. With dysbacteriosis, there is abundant discharge with an unpleasant odor from the vagina, pain during sexual intercourse, and a burning sensation during urination.
With a prolonged inflammatory process, cocci continue to actively multiply, and this can cause the development and erosion of the cervix. If measures are not taken and the disease is not treated, this can lead to.
Useful video - Cocci in a smear:
In pregnant women, the presence of cocci in the smear complicates the course of pregnancy.Subsequently, the inflammatory process spreads to the rectum and urinary system, and this all affects the development of the fetus.
The presence of pneumococci can lead to pneumonia, gonococci can lead to gonorrhea, and meningococci can lead to meningitis. These pathogenic bacteria spread to the fetus and can be life-threatening. It is important not to delay your visit to the doctor and start treatment in a timely manner.
Features of treatment and prevention
When selecting effective drug therapy, it is recommended to test cocci for sensitivity to antibiotics. For this purpose, it is carried out.
An antibioticogram allows the doctor to choose the right antibacterial drug for treatment.If cocci are present in the smear, but no symptoms are observed, then no treatment is required.
Features of treatment:
- Antibiotics can be prescribed for systemic use or local action. In the first case, tablets or injection solutions are used, and in the second, preparations in the form of suppositories and tablets for insertion into the vagina are used. The course of antibiotic treatment is 7-10 days. Metronidazole is usually prescribed as an antibacterial drug. If you are allergic to this drug, use Clindamycin or Tinidazole.
- Antihistamines are prescribed to eliminate symptoms. In addition, to activate the immune system, the use of immunomodulators is recommended.
- After antibiotic therapy, it is advisable to use probiotics, which help restore the vaginal microflora. Often cocci may appear in the smear again. If necessary, you should undergo an additional course of treatment and use auxiliary means.
You should know that if cocci are detected in a smear of one of the partners, then both the woman and the man must undergo treatment.During treatment, it is important to maintain sexual rest. Otherwise, treatment will not make sense.
For preventive purposes, to prevent the appearance of cocci in the smear, you must adhere to the following recommendations:
- Perform hygiene procedures daily. It is not advisable to use panty liners frequently.
- Change your underwear every day.
- Avoid casual relationships. If the partner is untested, then use a condom.
- Do not douche frequently. This procedure affects the microflora, so it should be performed only on the recommendation of a doctor.
- Sexual activity should begin only after full maturity. It is important to remember that early onset of sexual activity can have unpleasant consequences.
- Increase immunity. Eat enough vegetables and fruits, eat right, and exercise.
- Regularly undergo gynecological examinations.
Coccus infection is a dangerous disease that causes destabilization of the internal systems of the body. Microorganisms colonize in the brain, gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and genitals. Pathogenic bacteria have different effects on women's, men's and children's bodies. Detection of infection requires urgent treatment. We'll look at it in more detail in the article.
Causes of cocci:
- Long-term use of antibiotics. This group of drugs kills beneficial bacteria. Cocci with good viability begin to predominate. Bacteria primarily affect the mucous membrane of human organs.
- Hormonal changes. A malfunction in the body is an excellent opportunity for the proliferation of dangerous bacteria. Coccal flora is formed by taking contraceptives and during breastfeeding.
- Lack of protection during sexual intercourse. Bacteria are passed from partner to partner. The infection worries more the weaker half of humanity. In men it is not always noticeable. However, both will have to undergo treatment. Otherwise, the process of transmitting bacteria will continue.
- Decreased immunity. Low body resistance leads to the loss of beneficial microorganisms. Cocci spread quickly in such an environment. Read about ways to boost your immune system.
- Hygiene. Lack of proper care for the reproductive organs leads to the development and proliferation of coccal infections.
Main types and associated diseases
Coccus bacteria, causing inflammatory processes in the body, there are several types. The most common are 4 microorganisms.
- These are bacteria that attack the mucous membrane of the brain. The infection is transmitted through the air. Microorganisms enter the nasopharynx and then move to the brain. After 7 days of bacterial development, an inflammatory process begins, the complication of which is meningitis.
- these are residents of the genital area that cause sexually transmitted diseases, for example, gonorrhea.The disease can occur in a latent form and be chronic, which leads to infertility. Bacteria also settle in the eye area, which provokes the development blennorrhea– severe inflammatory process. Gonococci endowed with less resistance to adverse conditions. Getting rid of them is much easier.
If signs of infection are detected, you should immediately consult a doctor.
According to the severity of inflammatory processes, cocci are divided into 6 groups:
- Group A– resistant microorganisms that cause diseases, such as – erysipelas, scarlet fever. They multiply mainly in the respiratory organs.
- Group B– bacteria that develop in the body of newborns, pregnant women, and patients. Accompanying illnesses: sepsis, meningitis, diabetic foot, diseases of the genitourinary system.
- Group C– microorganisms that attack the mucous membrane of the heart. A complication is heart failure, heart disease,. The latter disease can be fatal. Bacteria of this group cause damage to the skin, leading to intoxication of the body.
- Group D– main pathogen infective endocarditis.
- Group G– bacteria that affect the skin, mucous membranes of the mouth, heart, and brain. Associated diseases: erysipelas, periodontitis, endocarditis, meningitis, brain abscess.
- Microorganisms, which cannot be combined into a specific group. Coccus bacteria spread throughout the body, causing abscesses of the brain, liver, abdominal cavity. This category of bacteria poses a particular danger to the respiratory system, causing severe , sinusitis, inflammation of the pleura.
Symptoms of the presence of bacteria are the following:
- long-term use of antibiotics and contraceptives;
- hormonal changes;
- early sexual life;
- using women's underwear that doesn't fit;
- synthetic underwear;
- lack of proper care;
- stressful condition;
- frequent douching.
If the number of coccal bacteria does not exceed acceptable levels, no treatment is required. If microorganisms pose a health hazard, antibacterial drugs of different groups are prescribed: suppositories, ointments, gels, tablets. A biological seeding of the vagina on a nutrient medium is first performed. In this way, the degree of resistance of bacteria to medications is determined, which makes it possible to prescribe effective treatment.
Among the broad-spectrum drugs recommended: Metronidazole and Tinidazole. The complex appoints lactobacilli, and in case of complications - antihistamines and immunostimulating drugs. Duration of treatment – from 7 days. In some cases, you have to take several courses.
It is necessary to sound the alarm if severe itching and burning occurs. A diagnosis is made for the presence of a hidden infection. The most dangerous are bacteria that cause the development of sexually transmitted diseases. Diseases are easily transmitted to the baby. The presence of pathogenic microorganisms can lead to miscarriage.
Treatment is prescribed taking into account safety for the fetus, mainly means for external use - ointments, gels and suppositories. Removal of inflammatory processes is possible through the use of chamomile. In severe cases, antibiotics are prescribed. Treatment usually takes place in a hospital under the supervision of a doctor.
In men
“Male” infectious bacteria live mainly in the genitourinary system. Staphylococcus aureus And streptococcus- These are the indigenous people. It is impossible to do without their participation in supporting the sexual microflora. However, inflammatory processes in the body can cause the death of beneficial bacteria. Coccal microbes begin to prevail over the others, penetrating cells and tissues. This condition leads to necrosis some sections of the canal.
Gonococci spread in the reproductive system of the stronger half due to unprotected sex. Pathogenic organisms enter the body through wounds and lesions on the skin. You can catch a “male” infection in a swimming pool, bathhouse or sauna. Gonococcus provokes an inflammatory process accompanied by discharge with pus and blood.
Causes of coccal infection in men:
- redness and swelling of the groin area;
- severe itching;
- purulent discharge;
- pain when urinating.
Treatment of coccal infections in men is carried out with antibiotics and non-steroidal drugs. The first group destroys pathogenic bacteria, the second reduces inflammation.
A specialist from the Moscow Doctor clinic will tell you about coccal microorganisms found in smears of male and female genital organs. Types of bacteria, symptoms, concomitant diseases, need for treatment:
Age-related changes in a child's body cause a decrease in immunity. In a weakened body, pathogenic microbes multiply faster. The presence of coccal infection in a child is manifested by the following symptoms:
- increased fatigue;
- nausea and vomiting;
- loose stools;
- sharp pain in the abdomen;
- difficulty breathing;
- skin rashes;
- spontaneous urination;
- pain when emptying the bladder;
- increased body temperature;
- nervousness.
Pediatric infectious diseases requiring immediate hospitalization:
- Pneumococcal infection. Rapid reproduction occurs in the child's respiratory system pneumococcus. Complications: meningitis, pneumonia, sepsis.
- Meningococcal infection. The causative agent is diplococcus. The bacterium walks around in places where children gather, entering the body through airborne droplets. The first sign of infection is high fever, nasal congestion, swollen lymph nodes, spasm of the muscles of the back and neck. Complications: meningitis.
- Infection of the genitourinary system. Pathogenic bacteria of different groups attack children aged 0 to 8 years. The causes of the disease are hypothermia, unbalanced nutrition, and congenital pathologies. The development of infection causes symptoms similar to cystitis: pain, abdominal pain, difficulty urinating.
- Staphylococcal infection. Staphylococcus are the most dangerous for children. They spread throughout the body, affecting any tissue. The inflammatory process appears in the form otitis, laryngitis, arthritis.
- Streptococcal infection. This type of microbe is practically not inferior to the previous one. Very young children are most often affected. Against the background of the development of the pathogenic sphere, diseases arise: pneumonia, purulent otitis media, abscesses, meningitis. In a complicated situation, bleeding from the nose, swelling of the liver, spleen, and kidneys with elevated body temperature are observed.
Coccal flora is detected when the amount of beneficial microflora decreases and cocci develop instead. This becomes an unfavorable factor that can provoke the development of serious inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system. Treatment is not always required, only when there is a significant increase in the number of bacteria, which often occurs against the background of other pathologies or weakened immunity.
General description of the bacterium
Cocci in a smear are determined in a laboratory. Microorganisms look like small coffee beans. They normally live in the genitourinary system and reproduce under the influence of negative factors.
During examination, several types of microbes are most often identified:
- Staphylococcus aureus;
- gonococcus;
- streptococcus.
Types of cocci
The urinary system is populated by streptococci and staphylococci. Their function is that they eliminate dead tissue. Many external reasons lead to the fact that beneficial bacteria die en masse. The vacated area is populated by opportunistic pathogens. They begin to destroy living tissues because they lack normal nutrition. Inflammation develops and areas of the urinary tract die.
The exception is gonococcus. The main method of transmission of this infection is sexual. The bacterium attacks the body's own microflora and causes its death. The microbe has the ability to provoke inflammation; it is especially dangerous for the gonads. The pathology is accompanied by the formation of fluid with dead epidermal tissue, pus and leukocytes.
Research Indicators
Depending on the causes of occurrence, the concentration of infection may vary. Acute processes lead to the identification of a larger number of cocci.
When deciphering the analysis, it is important to understand that cocci are present on the skin and mucous membranes normally, but in small quantities. Pathogenic properties begin to appear only with significant growth. This is caused by a decrease in the body's resistance when exposed to various factors.
In addition to a smear from the genital organs, an analysis is carried out for the presence of cocci in the nose in men, in vaginal secretions in women.
Flora is assessed based on quantitative characteristics. Indirect indicators of inflammation are of no small importance: an increase in the number of leukocytes, mucus, and epithelial cells.
Pus in the test indicates an excess of white blood cells and dead bacteria.
Normal indicators are presented in the table.
When analyzing for bacterial culture, the diagnostic titer is considered to be 104 . The norm is within this amount. At 106 and more in the conclusion it is written “abundant growth”. The values of gr.- and gr.+ are also indicated, which indicate gram-negative and gram-positive cocci (stained by Gram).
If cocci are present, a mixed flora is diagnosed. There are several varieties of it:
- 1. Meager. The number of Doderlein sticks predominates. Treatment is carried out with broad-spectrum drugs.
- 2. Abundant. There is an abundant growth of pathogenic flora. The condition requires the prescription of a strong antibiotic.
- 3. Coccobacillary. Indicates a concomitant infection, such as an STD. Treatment is dictated by the underlying disease.
Reasons for the increase in the number of cocci
There are factors that influence the proliferation of microorganisms. Cocci develop in large numbers due to the following reasons:
| Cause | Description |
| Accompanying illnesses | Pathologies such as pneumonia, ulcers or gastritis, and diabetes mellitus lead to the development of the disease. The latter has a necrotic effect on peripheral veins. The walls of blood vessels become thinner, and oxygen supply is disrupted. Most cocci are anaerobic and can live without oxygen. Therefore, they appear on organs that do not receive it. This causes bacteria to multiply quickly |
| Taking antibiotics | This type of drug affects all types of bacteria. Cocci, which multiply due to a decrease in the number of lactobacilli, develop resistance to the drug used |
| Decreased immunity | This factor leads to the formation of pathologies of the genitourinary system. The total number of “beneficial” microorganisms (normally inhabiting the microflora) decreases due to inflammation. Often their place is taken by cocci; they can affect the urinary tract and genital glands. When the immune system is severely impaired, the prostate is affected. This leads to the development of bacterial prostatitis |
| Unprotected sexual intercourse | STD infection occurs, chlamydia, gonorrhea and other dangerous pathologies appear. Ignoring it leads to the spread of infection |
| Genital injuries and surgeries | Interventions and injuries cause changes in flora and activate the process of reproduction of cocci. When using poorly sterilized instruments, foreign organisms enter the bloodstream |
Symptoms
The appearance of bacteria in large numbers is accompanied by the following symptoms:
- discharge of pus;
- redness and swelling of the groin area, the outer part of the genital organs;
- pain when urinating;
- itching and discomfort in the urethra.
Damage to the urethra by cocci leads to the formation of a focus of inflammation, increased discomfort during emptying, and dead epidermis is excreted in the urine. With gonococcal and enterococcal infections, green discharge from the urethra appears with the smell of rotten fish. As the infection progresses, blood and pus become mixed in. Any discharge unusual for the body is a reason to visit a doctor.
Enterococci and staphylococci provoke swelling of the scrotum and urethra. The walls become hard and tense. Severe swelling makes it difficult to empty the bladder. The patient often visits the restroom without success.
Therapy
There are certain rules for preparing for a smear collection:
- 1. Refusal from intimate life for 5-7 days. During this time, a significant number of pathogenic bacteria accumulate in the urethra. If this is not done, the analysis will be unreliable.
- 2. No urination 3 hours before the test.
- 3. Refusal to use antibiotics and antibacterial agents 2 weeks before submitting the sample.
Not all pathologies caused by cocci can be treated with medications. But if necessary, NSAIDs and antibiotics are used. The latter are selected in laboratory conditions with the determination of sensitivity during bacterial culture.
Cocci should die when exposed to antibiotics. If this does not happen for more than 5 days, an antimicrobial agent is added. It helps to destroy the remains of bacteria and reduce the level of pathogenic cells.
Treatment is carried out for no more than a week; if there is no positive result, the medicine is changed.
NSAIDs relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and eliminate symptoms in the form of discomfort. With prolonged use, they can cause disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract and liver.
Anti-inflammatory drugs can be used in the form of suppositories for rectal administration, for example, with diclofenac sodium.
You can treat cocci with folk remedies:
- 1. Antimicrobial compounds. Decoctions are used to treat the external part of the genital organs and wash them. One of the herbs of your choice is brewed: sage, chamomile, peppermint - in the proportions: 1 tbsp. l. raw materials and 0.5 liters of water. The broth is infused and filtered.
Gynecologist - how much fear and panic arises from just the thought of this doctor. Do not be afraid, because the gynecologist is your friend against harmful diseases and viruses. It is necessary to visit a gynecologist every six months to be sure of your health.
Well, you gathered your thoughts and went to the appointment, underwent an examination and took tests... And suddenly you are diagnosed with... Cocci - what kind of animal this is and how to fight it, let's look at it in more detail.
Cocci are the smallest spherical bacteria in our body. These bacteria are “two-faced” they can be both beneficial and harmful. They are useful in our body only when they are in a certain quantity and perform the necessary tasks.
If the amount is outside the normal range, you should worry, in this case the bacteria can harm your body. Therefore, it is necessary to constantly monitor the number of cocci in the microflora.
Norm of cocci in a smear
The microflora of a woman’s vagina is very interesting; it contains a huge number of bacteria that perform their functions and maintain the health of the female organs and the entire body as a whole. In the microflora, in addition to other bacteria - acidophilus, bifidumbacteria, peptostreptocci, there are also cocci.
Their tasks with full cooperation are: maintain acid balance, influence the metabolic process, fight “harmful” bacteria.
To determine the number of cocci, it is necessary take a smear for alkaline balance. If the amount exceeds the norm, then the microflora has an increased alkaline environment, in this case the pH level is greater than 7.5.
With a normal alkaline balance, the pH level should be no more than 7 and no less than 5.5. The number of cocci has a great impact on the body; a woman may experience cervical erosion, endometritis, or even worse, infertility.
Symptoms of the appearance of cocci
Appearance of cocci in the body will not go unnoticed, they are accompanied by a number of symptoms:
- Unpleasant odor, similar to rotten fish or missing sour milk product.
- Constant itching and burning on the genitals.
- Painful sensations when urinating.
- Vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor and an unusual color - white, yellow or even green.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
It is worth understanding that these symptoms can also occur with other diseases and bacteria, and cocci can cause other symptoms. Therefore, in order not to self-medicate and harm your body, go to the doctor and get the necessary tests.
Reasons for the appearance of cocci in the body
Get your hands on cocci into your body is quite simple, the most likely of them are:
- improper use of antibiotics, perhaps you prescribed them to yourself or took the wrong dosage, which affected the microflora of the body;
- irregular hygiene or use of poor-quality hygiene products;
- promiscuous sexual intercourse with various partners is the most likely option for infection;
- unprotected sexual intercourse with a carrier of bacteria, in this case infection is inevitable;
- using underwear that is the wrong size or of poor quality, especially frequent wearing of synthetics;
- improper and frequent douching;
- early onset of sexual activity;
- hormonal disorders;
- weakened immunity.
Prevention of cocci in the body
In order to avoid these unpleasant bacteria, you need to follow a few simple rules:
- Before you start taking a course of antibiotics, you should consult a doctor who will help you choose harmless dosages for you. You should not self-medicate.
- Needed daily carry out hygiene procedures, during the day, if necessary, use panty liners and wipes for intimate hygiene.
- Need to decide on a sexual partner, avoid sexual intercourse with other men/women.
- During sexual intercourse with an unverified partner or a carrier of the bacteria use a condom as a contraceptive.
- Change linen daily, it is advisable to choose from natural cotton; you should not wear small underwear.
- It is not advisable to overuse douching; you have an impact on the microflora. Use this method only when prescribed by a doctor.
- The first sexual intercourse should take place after full maturation; early acts are accompanied by unpleasant consequences.
- It is necessary to monitor the hormonal levels of your body, regularly take the necessary tests.
- To prevent the body from suffering from reduced immunity, you need to keep it under control. Constantly monitor your diet, eliminate obesity, add physical activity.
- Avoid mechanical damage to the genitals, which weakens the microflora.
How to treat cocci in a woman?
Cocci in a woman– a common phenomenon, therefore the most effective means are prescribed for their treatment. First, you need to take a course of antibiotics. It would be great if before this you have your body tested for certain groups of antibiotics, to find out how sensitive your body is to them.
Antibiotics will fight bacteria from the inside. This treatment is the most effective. Secondly, vaginal suppositories are prescribed to combat bacteria directly at the site of existence. For the same effect, procedures in the form of douching or tampons soaked in the necessary agents can be prescribed. Thirdly, the doctor prescribes multivitamins to maintain immunity. After treatment, you may be offered to take a course of probiotics, which will fight the effects of the disease.
You need to understand that this treatment may not help you. The doctor prescribes medications solely depending on your health condition. A specialist may suggest a completely different treatment.
How to treat cocci during pregnancy?
A woman's body during pregnancy is completely special. It is quite difficult to prescribe treatment in this situation; it is worth choosing means and drugs with minimal impact on the fetus.
Cocci in a pregnant woman are doubly dangerous, they can enter the genitourinary system, and then into the uterus and cause inflammatory processes, which is not very good for the unborn child. Depending on the number of cocci, treatment will be prescribed. If the amount is small, then first you will be prescribed vaginal suppositories and baths in herbal decoction.
If this does not help, then treatment with antibiotics is necessary. Don't worry, antibiotics will not harm the fetus, it's better to think about the consequences of inaction.
How to treat cocci in men?
The stronger sex does not really like visiting the hospital and “male” doctors, but if suddenly you have cocci in the body, you must immediately consult a doctor and get the necessary treatment. Before taking a smear to check for cocci, a man must not urinate for two hours, avoid drinking alcohol and spicy foods the day before, and not take medications for two weeks.
Treatment of cocci in men is almost no different from women. Antibiotics are also prescribed, followed by sensitivity tests, which have an internal influence on the problem.
Instead of vaginal suppositories and tampons, rectal medications may be prescribed that act on bacteria through the intestinal tract. A course of multivitamins is simply necessary during antibiotic treatment to maintain a healthy state of the body.
How to treat cocci in a child?
Cocci are not very common in children, if you notice unusual discharge and odor with redness on the genitals in your child, you should urgently contact a specialist. For girls, there is even a pediatric gynecologist who will help solve your problem, but if there is not one, contact a pediatrician.
If cocci were found in your analysis, then most likely you will be prescribed a course of antibiotics, antibacterial ointments, baths with solutions, taking multivitamins and observing hygiene standards - washing 2 times a day with certain products and changing linen. They simply cannot prescribe suppositories and douching for you due to your age.
The danger of cocci is quite strong, so if you are looking after your health and planning a pregnancy, you should regularly visit your doctor and take timely treatment to avoid unpleasant consequences. Remember, health is the key to your successful life.
You need to visit a gynecologist once every six months. This will keep women’s health under control and identify diseases in time. The simplest and most accessible research method in gynecology is taking a gynecological smear.
Deciphering such an analysis will allow the doctor to see changes in the woman’s reproductive system that are not visible during an external examination.
- Taking a smear is a completely painless procedure and will only take a couple of minutes. It does not pose a health hazard and can be performed even on pregnant women.
When should you take a smear test?
Deciphering a smear analysis of flora can tell a gynecologist about the presence of sexually transmitted infections, an inflammatory process, and hormonal disorders in a woman’s body.
A flora smear (gynecological smear) is required if a woman has the following complaints:
- Discharge of an unusual color from the genital tract.
- Abdominal pain at rest or during sexual intercourse.
- Feeling of itching and burning in the genital area.
- The appearance of an unpleasant odor in the discharge.
Swabs are also taken during preventive examinations.
Interpretation of smear results
Using letters, the doctor marks the place where the smear was taken. Usually the letters of the Latin alphabet are used: V, C, U.
Smears are taken from three points: the vagina (V-vagina), cervix (C-cervix) and urethra (U-uretra).
In deciphering a smear for flora in women, you can find the strange word “cocci”. Cocci are microorganisms that have a round shape. This is a group of opportunistic organisms that are constantly present in the body.
However, they must be in a certain quantity. As soon as their number exceeds the permissible limit, cocci can cause unpleasant symptoms due to inflammation. In gynecology, this condition is called nonspecific colpitis.
Cocci are divided into two groups: gram-positive and gram-negative. This division has important diagnostic value in determining the pathogenicity of the microorganism that has settled in the vagina.
Coccus flora in a smear, gr.+ or gr.- cocci
smear on the flora of coccus bacilli
The division of microbes into gram-negative and gram-positive appeared in microbiology after a Danish scientist named Gram discovered the ability of microorganisms to turn different colors, depending on the degree of their resistance to antibiotics.
When coloring the preparations, a special dark blue or purple dye was used. The scientist noticed that some microbes turn blue, while others turn pink, although the dye is the same.
After careful research, it was found that microbes colored pink or crimson are less sensitive to antibiotics. In order for their death to occur, considerable efforts must be made.
Microorganisms that stained well in blue were called gram-positive (gram+), and those that remained pink were called gram-negative (gram-).
The pale coloration and resistance to antibacterial drugs was explained simply: these bacteria had a thicker shell. The structure of the wall is more complex than that of gram(+) cocci, which means that it is much more difficult for a dye or antibiotic to penetrate its layers.
This division is important for a gynecologist. Detection of gram(+) cocci in a smear is allowed. These microorganisms include staphylococcus and streptococcus, which may be present in the vagina of a healthy woman.
Gram(-) cocci can cause disease. The most common representatives of this group in gynecology are gonococci, the causative agents of gonorrhea.
What are Dederlein sticks?
An essential element of women's health is the rod flora in the vagina. Dederlein's rods are a generalized name that combines large and immobile gram-positive rods that provide normal microflora of the female genital organs.
They can be found under the name lactobacilli or gram-positive rods.
Dederlein sticks play an important role in a woman’s life:
- They help maintain an acidic environment in the vagina, which ensures careful selection of sperm during fertilization.
- As you know, sperm do not live long in an acidic environment. Therefore, inferior, weakened male cells die first, which allows only the strongest and most resilient to reach the goal.
- Suppress the development of pathogenic microorganisms through the activation of macrophages.
- Hydrogen peroxide is released - helps to “maintain cleanliness” in the vagina.
In a smear of a healthy woman, Dederlein bacilli should be present in large quantities. A decrease in their number indicates possible problems with women's health.
What is Leptotrix in a smear?
Leptotrix belongs to the opportunistic microorganisms. This is a gram(+) anaerobic bacillus that inhabits water bodies. Under a microscope, leptothrix has the appearance of a hair - a long and thin rod.
It is believed that leptothrix are not sexually transmitted, and their presence in a smear is not a cause for concern if no other abnormalities are detected.
The peculiarity of these bacteria is that they often accompany other pathogenic microorganisms - Trichomonas and Chlamydia. In this case, the doctor will prescribe medications to treat several pathogens at once.
If leptothrix is detected during pregnancy planning, treatment is mandatory. It has been revealed that they can cause miscarriages, cause inflammatory processes in the membranes, and infect the child.
smear test
After receiving test results, it can sometimes be very difficult to understand the numbers and letters written by the doctor. It's actually not that complicated. In order to understand whether you have gynecological diseases, you need to know the normal indicators when deciphering the smear analysis for flora. There are not many of them.
In smear tests in an adult woman, the normal indicators are as follows:
- Flat epithelium (s.ep.) – normally its number should be within fifteen cells in the field of view. If the number is higher, then this is evidence of inflammatory diseases. If less is a sign of hormonal disorders.
- Leukocytes (L) – These cells are allowed to be present as they help fight infection. The normal number of leukocytes in the vagina and urethra is no more than ten, and in the cervical area - up to thirty.
- Dederlein sticks - a healthy woman should have a lot of them. A small number of lactobacilli indicates a disturbed vaginal microflora.
- Mucus – should be present, but only in small quantities.
The presence of Candida fungi, small rods, gram(-) cocci, Trichomonas, gonococci and other microorganisms in the analysis results indicates the presence of a disease and requires a more in-depth study and treatment.
Table for deciphering the normal smear in women (flora)
| Index | Normal values | ||
| Vagina (V) | Cervical canal (C) | Urethra (U) | |
| Leukocytes | 0-10 | 0-30 | 0-5 |
| Epithelium | 5-10 | 5-10 | 5-10 |
| Slime | Moderately | Moderately | |
| Gonococci(Gn) | No | No | No |
| Trichomonas | No | No | No |
| Key cells | No | No | No |
| Candida (yeast) | No | No | No |
| Microflora | A large number of Gram+ rods (Dederlein rods) | No | No |
Degrees of vaginal cleanliness
Often the doctor writes out a referral for a smear test for purity. Using this method, the “degree of cleanliness” of the vagina is determined. There are four of them in total. Only the first and second degrees are normal; the third and fourth degrees indicate the presence of diseases of the genital tract.
1st degree – an ideal option, which, unfortunately, is rare. Leukocytes in the smear do not exceed the permissible limits. The flora is represented by a large number of Dederlein bacilli, mucus and desquamated epithelial cells in small quantities.
2nd degree – The most common variant of the norm, in which leukocytes are within normal limits, mucus and epithelium are in moderate quantities. A small number of cocci or Candida fungi appear, and large quantities of lactobacilli appear.
3rd degree – a large amount of mucus and epithelial cells is detected in the smear. There are few beneficial lactobacilli; instead, there is an increased number of Candida fungi and pathogenic microbes.
4th degree – there are so many leukocytes that the doctor describes them as “entirely”. A very large number of pathogenic microorganisms. Dederlein rods are missing. Mucus and epithelium in large quantities.
The first and second degrees do not require treatment, but the last two degrees indicate an inflammatory process caused by one or another pathogen and require immediate treatment.
Flora smear during pregnancy
During the entire period of pregnancy, it is done three times, during screening examinations: at the time of registration, at the 30th week and before the expected date of birth.
The analysis is carried out to prevent diseases of the genital area, which can complicate childbirth or cause diseases in the newborn.
The smear readings of a pregnant woman differ from those of a non-pregnant woman in the quantitative composition of the flora.
During the period of bearing a baby, the number of Dederlein rods increases tens of times. This is necessary to maintain an acidic environment, which has a destructive effect on pathogenic microbes, protecting the fetus from infection.
The number of epithelial cells also increases. During pregnancy, they accumulate glycogen reserves, which are used by lactobacilli as food.
Otherwise there are no differences. The appearance of pathogenic microorganisms also requires treatment, only more gentle methods of therapy are chosen (suppositories, tampons, ointments).