Gardnerella Vaginalis in Men and Women: Causes, Testing, Signs and Symptoms, and Complications

Gardnerella vaginalis

Gardnerella vaginalis is a bacterium commonly associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) in women. While it primarily affects women, it can also be found in men and occasionally causes infections. This article aims to provide an overview of Gardnerella vaginalis in both men and women, including its causes, testing methods, signs and symptoms, and potential complications.

 

Bacterial vaginosis and Gardnerella

Bacterial vaginosis and Gardnerella vaginalis are not classified as sexually transmitted infections, but the chances of developing the condition are higher for sexually active individuals who have recently changed partners. Additionally, using an intrauterine device (IUD) for contraception or scented products around the vaginal area can contribute to its occurrence.

While Gardnerella vaginalis can be transmitted between women during sexual activity, it can also be passed to men, often without noticeable symptoms.

Gardnerella vaginalis in Men:

Gardnerella vaginalis infections in men are uncommon, and the bacterium is rarely associated with invasive diseases or bacteremia. However, there have been reported cases of G. vaginalis bacteremia in men, particularly those with underlying comorbid conditions that make them susceptible to severe bacterial infections. Symptoms may include urinary tract infection or sepsis. Diagnosis of G. vaginalis in men can be challenging, as isolation and identification of the bacterium are often delayed.

Some people view Gardnerella as a sexually transmitted disease where male partners can carry it without showing symptoms. It can affect the male genital and urinary systems, causing conditions like balanoposthitis, urethritis, cystitis, and prostatitis, although this is uncommon.

All PULSE Clinics in Thailand provide the most comprehensive PCR Tests for 28 infections to give you peace of mind and fast treatment. 

Gardnerella vaginalis in Women:

Gardnerella vaginalis is a common bacterium in the vagina and is associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV occurs when there is an imbalance in the vaginal flora, leading to an overgrowth of Gardnerella and other bacteria. While BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it can be passed from women to men during unprotected sexual intercourse.

Women with Bacterial Vaginosis may experience symptoms such as vaginal discharge with a strong, unpleasant smell, vaginal odour after sex, vaginal itching, and painful urination. Gardnerella vaginalis can be diagnosed in women through urine or swab samples. Treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics, which can effectively clear the infection.

 

What are the Common Symptoms of Gardnerella vaginalis in Women and Men?

Gardnerella vaginalis is a bacterium that can cause infections, particularly in the genital area. It is commonly associated with bacterial vaginosis in women, characterized by thin, greyish-white vaginal discharge with a fishy odour, vaginal itching, and burning during urination. Men infected with Gardnerella vaginalis are often asymptomatic, meaning they do not show any noticeable symptoms. However, in rare cases, they may experience inflammation of the foreskin and head of the penis (balanoposthitis), inflammation of the urethra (urethritis), bladder inflammation (cystitis), or inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis).

 

Common symptoms of Gardnerella vaginalis in Women:

• Vaginal discharge that is typically thin, greyish-white, and has a distinct fishy odour (characteristic of bacterial vaginosis)
• Vaginal itching or irritation
• Burning sensation during urination
• Vaginal odor that becomes stronger after sexual intercourse
• Some women may experience discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Common symptoms of Gardnerella vaginalis in men include:

• Often asymptomatic (no symptoms)
• Also, men may experience:
  • Balanoposthitis (inflammation of the foreskin and head of the penis)
  • Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra)
  • Cystitis (bladder inflammation)
  • Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland)

Complications of Gardnerella vaginalis in both men and women, if left untreated, may include:

• Increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can lead to infertility or ectopic pregnancy
• Preterm birth or low birth weight in pregnant women
• Recurrent or chronic bacterial vaginosis
• Disruption of the natural vaginal flora balance, leading to recurrent infections

It is important to note that while Gardnerella vaginalis can cause symptoms and complications, not all individuals infected with this bacteria will experience them. Proper diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare professional are necessary to manage the infection effectively.

 

How to test and diagnose Gardnerella vaginalis?

The presence of Gardnerella vaginalis can be detected through diagnostic tests using either a urine sample or a swab sample.

PULSE Clinic provides a diverse selection of private sexually transmitted infection (STI) tests that can accurately diagnose the presence of this bacterium.

All PULSE Clinics in Thailand provide the most comprehensive PCR Tests for 28 infections to give you peace of mind and fast treatment.