Struggling with Persistent Discomfort for Almost a Year - Seeking Solutions!
I am a 34-year-old female, standing at 5'7" and weighing 170 pounds. I do not smoke and only occasionally consume alcohol. Presently, I’m not on any medications and have been in a committed relationship with my partner for over a decade. Lately, I have been feeling quite unwell in my intimate area, facing ongoing issues of dryness, irritation, and intense itchiness. On November 20, 2024, I was diagnosed with Bacterial Vaginosis and Group B Streptococcus (GBS), which led to a prescription for Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin). After using this medication for about ten days, I reached out to my healthcare provider to express that my symptoms had not improved. Consequently, I was given Clindamycin Phosphate 2% to be used nightly for a week. Unfortunately, post-treatment and after my menstrual cycle, my discomfort persisted. When I returned to the doctor on December 20, 2024, I tested positive again for GBS. This time, I was prescribed Keflex (Cephalexin 500 mg) for a week. Initially, I felt much better and was relieved to return to my normal state. However, as I approached my next period, the symptoms resurfaced. After menstruating, I continued to feel discomfort and received a refill, which again provided temporary relief. Yet, as I neared my subsequent cycle, the familiar issues reappeared. Following a hiatus caused by a lapse in insurance, as well as wanting to give my body time to recuperate from the continuous antibiotic usage, I consulted another doctor. Again, I received a positive test result for GBS, but no other infections appeared on the tests. I tested negative for Chlamydia, Gonorrhoeae, Trichomoniasis (which I expected), Bacterial Vaginosis, Mycoplasma, Candida glabrata, and HPV. The doctor prescribed me Ampicillin (500 mg) to be taken four times daily for five days, following which I was advised to take a Diflucan to prevent a yeast infection. To my dismay, I now experience a more persistent burning sensation alongside the dryness and itchiness. Additional testing revealed Enterococcus faecalis in my urine, and once again, they proposed to prescribe Macrobid. I am perplexed because I am not exhibiting any urinary tract infection symptoms, so why would they recommend a medication that has failed to provide relief before? As of now, I am still awaiting results from a swab taken over two weeks ago. At this point, I feel hopeless and desperate; it’s been nearly a year since these issues began, and all I want is to feel normal again. I receive the same response from every doctor I consult: "You seem fine. There’s nothing visibly wrong with you." But I am intimately aware of my body, and I know when something is amiss. I would appreciate any advice on specific tests I should request or if there are tests I can personally order online, similar to Evvy. After seeing three different physicians, I still find myself with no solutions. I'm also increasingly anxious about the potential risks to my fertility if this situation continues unresolved. I'm open to any suggestions!
Answers (1)
8/2/2025, 1:02:21 AM
OpenHealth AI
I understand how frustrating and distressing your situation has been, especially since the discomfort has persisted for almost a year despite numerous treatments. It’s clear you want to find a solution that brings you relief and reassurance. Let's focus on potential directions you might take for your ongoing symptoms and provide some actionable steps.
Main Points
- Chronic symptoms could be related to various causes, including recurrent infections, irritation, or other underlying issues.
- It's essential to continue advocating for your health and seek specific tests that could help clarify your situation.
Explanation
Your symptoms of dryness, irritation, and intense itchiness, coupled with the recurring positive tests for Group B Streptococcus (GBS), suggest that there may be an underlying issue that isn't being addressed solely by antibiotic treatment. It's not uncommon for women to experience persistent discomfort in the intimate area, especially if there are factors such as hormonal changes (e.g., menstruation), pH imbalance, or irritation from hygiene products or soaps contributing to the situation.
Additionally, taking multiple courses of antibiotics can lead to changes in your natural flora, sometimes causing more irritation or susceptibility to yeast infections. The presence of Enterococcus faecalis in your urine without UTI symptoms is also noteworthy and should be explored further.
Next Steps
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Consider a Comprehensive Evaluation:
- Request a referral to a specialist, such as a gynecologist or a urologist who has experience with persistent genital symptoms. They may consider further evaluations, such as pelvic ultrasound or cultures for less common pathogens.
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Testing for Other Conditions:
- Inquire about testing for autoimmune conditions like vulvodynia or conditions that might affect pH balance, such as lichen sclerosus. Additionally, tests for possible hormonal imbalances might be beneficial.
- Ask if there are options for a comprehensive microbiome analysis or testing for candida sensitivities, beyond standard cultures.
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Topical Treatments and Care:
- Since medications have provided only temporary relief, consider non-pharmacologic approaches, like vaginal moisturizers, pH-balancing gels, or topical estrogen (if recommended by your doctor), which can help alleviate vaginal dryness.
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Keep a Symptom Diary:
- Track your symptoms and any potential triggers (diet, hygiene products, menstrual cycle) that you notice. This information can be invaluable during medical consultations.
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Addressing Anxiety:
- Since chronic discomfort can lead to anxiety, explore stress management techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or talking to a therapist to help cope with the emotional impact of ongoing health concerns.
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Follow-Up on Current Tests:
- Make sure to follow up on the results of the recent swab you had taken, and ask about their implications as soon as they are available.
While it's understandable to feel despair given your experience, remember that you are being proactive in seeking help. Documenting your journey, continuing to inform and educate yourself about potential conditions, and advocating for your health will be key to finding the right support and treatment for your needs. Please feel free to reach out again if you have more questions or need further guidance.
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