[Genital infections and their diagnosis in general practice]

Infections are among the frequent disorders which cause patients to consult a gynaecologist. The spectrum of microorganisms in this area is broad, but only few pathogens are capable of causing an inflammatory infection without previous damage of the epithelium. A-Streptococci are the most dangerous pathogens in the genital area, especially in pregnancy and can only be detected by means of bacteriological culture. Most frequently isolated bacteria in the genital tract are facultative pathogenic bacteria deriving from the intestine. They are not always the reason for discharge or burning. An overview of the diagnostic procedures is given.