Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina that commonly afflicts women of childbearing age. Not much is known about the causes of BV other than the overgrowth of bad bacteria in the vagina. Although most women are at risk for developing BV, there are certain behaviors that will increase the risk of contracting the infection. Follow these suggestions to prevent BV or treat the infection if you already have it.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Evaluating Symptoms
Step 1. Watch for abnormal vaginal discharge as well as any unusual or unpleasant odor
Women with BV may have a thin white or gray discharge with a fishy odor.
The liquid that comes out is generally thicker and has a strong smell right after sexual intercourse
Step 2. Feel if there is a burning sensation while urinating
Burning can be a sign that you have BV.
Step 3. Watch for itching on the outside of the vagina
Itching usually appears on the skin around the vagina.
Step 4. Consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms or suspect a BV outbreak
Although BV doesn't usually cause lasting problems, there are some serious risks associated with this condition. These risks include:
- Have a higher risk of getting HIV infection.
- A woman infected with HIV has a higher tendency to pass the infection on to her partner.
- Have a higher risk of infection after surgery such as a hysterectomy or abortion.
- A pregnant woman who has BV is at risk for complications during pregnancy.
- Have a higher risk of contracting other sexually transmitted diseases, such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Method 2 of 3: Treating Bacterial Vaginosis
Step 1. Take the antibiotics prescribed by the doctor
Two different antibiotics are recommended as treatment for BV: metronidazole or clindamycin. Metronidazole is available in pill and gel form. Your doctor will determine the appropriate antibiotic for you.
- Oral metronidazole is believed to be the most effective type of antibiotic treatment.
- Probiotics can be used to treat women who are pregnant or not, but the recommended doses are not the same.
- Women with BV as well as HIV receive the same care as those without HIV.
Step 2. Try home remedies
It is said that L. acidophilus or Lactobacillus probiotic tablets can help get rid of BV. Probiotic tablets contain lactic acid-producing bacteria that balance the number of bacteria in the vagina.
- Although these tablets are usually taken orally, they can also be used as vaginal suppositories to balance the amount of bacteria in the vagina.
- Insert one probiotic pill directly into the vagina before going to bed at night. Do not use more than one tablet overnight to avoid possible irritation. The bad smell will disappear after using a certain number of doses. Repeat for at least 6 to 12 nights until the infection is gone. If the infection doesn't go away or gets worse after a few days, see a doctor.
Step 3. Know that BV will sometimes go away on its own without treatment
However, all women with BV symptoms should seek treatment to avoid complications.
Step 4. Keep in mind that BV can reappear after treatment
More than 50% of women who develop BV have recurrent symptoms within 12 months.
Method 3 of 3: Prevent Bacterial Vaginosis
Step 1. Avoid having sex with multiple partners and limit the number of new partners
Having sex with a new partner means opening yourself up to new bacteria. Not having sex can lower the risk of BV, but women who are not sexually active are not immune or safe from getting BV.
Step 2. Avoid vaginal sprays (douching)
Research shows that women who use the spray regularly experience more health problems than women who don't use it. Although doctors haven't found a specific relationship between vaginal sprays and BV, it's best to avoid using these sprays.
Step 3. Take probiotic pills regularly
Ask your doctor if a probiotic treatment is right for you. Certain Lactobacillus strains are thought to be capable of inhibiting the growth of BV-causing bacteria.
Step 4. It should be noted that BV carries dangerous risks for pregnant women
Pregnant women who have given birth to a baby weighing less than 2495 grams or have had a premature birth should have a BV test, even if there are no symptoms.
Tips
- Ask your partner to clean their hands before touching your vaginal area. Hand hygiene is very important.
- A woman does not get BV from a toilet seat, bed, swimming pool, or from skin contact with certain objects.
- If you are prescribed antibiotics, be sure to take antibiotics for the period prescribed by your doctor. If you stop taking antibiotics before the prescribed period, BV may reappear.
- Immediately go to the doctor if the symptoms mentioned above appear.
- Women with BV who are infected with HIV should receive the same care as those who do not have HIV.
Warning
- BV can recur even after treatment.
- BV can be spread between female sexual partners.
- Pregnant women who are exposed to BV are more likely to give birth to babies who are premature or have low birth weight.
- Treatment for BV (metronizadole) can cause a yeast infection and once you have a yeast infection, you are more likely to get BV again.
