Hi all, I've had a horrible but apparently low key strep b infection since April this year and despite several courses of antibiotics, uromune vaccine, garlic and various herbal remedies, it's not going away. Oh, and I have "moderate" amount in my vagina too.
So far I have been (wrongly) prescribed fosfomycin high dose and trimothrprim, neither of which did a thing. In August I had Pivmecyllin which really made me feel good but I was only on it for 7 days and sure enough symptoms returned.
Two years ago had an e coli infection that became antibiotic resistant and essentially in the last 2 years I've had about 18 courses of abs.
Doctors are divided in their opinions. Some say "oh it's only strep b, we don't treat it unless you're pregnant" others say its causing you discomfort- here, take some high dose longer term Pivmecyllin (a really high dose for chronic infection).
Another leading gynaecologist with a special interest in urogynaecology says "don't take the antibiotics, it can't be good for you!" with a very concerned look on his face. His suggestion is that I work on my gut. Which incidentally is in a bad state, constipation regularly, bloating etc.
I have days where I feel fine for 5 or 6 days at a time , and others where I feel awful bladder pain, not emptying, chilli powder feeling, etc. My bladder has prolapsed into my vagina, I can feel it - like a hard lemon. Doctors won't treat my prolapse for fear of making things worse. I personally think that because my bladder is pressing into my lower vagina its more susceptible to infection.
I'm doing all the natural stuff but sometimes I think, oh just put yourself out of misery and take the abs! But then, what if its not enough? What if a high dose doesn't shift this presumably embedded infection?
So confused. Any advice appreciated. Thank you