Jul 12 2008
Prevent Bacterial Vaginosis
There are several ways to prevent bacterial vaginosis and any other vaginal infection. Because this infection is caused by an imbalance in the acidic environment in the vagina that the good bacteria live in, it is important to keep the balance in check. If unhealthy organisms have a chance to gain a foothold and reproduce outnumbering the good bacteria, an infection will develop.
One way to maintain the acidic base necessary for the good bacteria, known as lactobacillus, to survive and combat infection is to consume yogurt or milk products that contain active acidophilus cultures. These cultures keep the pH balance in the vagina in an acidic state to resist infection.
For those who have an infection, consumption of yogurt or milk with acidophilus will help the body rejuvenate itself and bring the pH level back into the correct balance. A well balanced diet with fruits and vegetables high in vitamins C, A, B, D, and E is recommended to boost the immune system and keep it strong to ward off disease and give the body the ability to defend itself against illness.
Many of the preventative methods recommended are common sense practices that should be followed on a daily basis, and especially so if you are prone to vaginal infections or suffer from frequent recurrences. Keeping toilets and bathtubs disinfected will kill germs that could lead to a vaginal infection. Personal hygiene is an important factor in preventing infections.
Always wipe from front to back after a bowel movement to avoid the risk of E.coil from the rectum from entering the vagina. Keep the vaginal and anal regions as dry and clean as possible to prevent moisture from creating an atmosphere where bacteria can grow. Wear cotton underwear as opposed to nylon as cotton absorbs moisture and allows air to circulate more readily.
Another way to prevent bacterial vaginosis is by avoiding the use of scented bath oils, toilet paper, and douches as they contain chemicals that can irritate the genital tissues and disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina. Unless advised by your physician, douching on a regular basis should not be practiced as this could cause an imbalance in the fragile vaginal flora and destroy the natural organisms that fight infection. Douching can also cause other complications by spreading infection into the reproductive tract where damage can occur.
Sexually active women can protect themselves by taking precautions to lower the risk of developing a vaginal infection. Use of condoms can prevent the spread of unhealthy bacteria from one partner to the other. Be sure that diaphragms, medication applicators, and other birth control devices are thoroughly cleaned after each use.
It is always important to remember that if you experience unusual discharge or other symptoms of an infection to seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid the danger of damage to reproductive organs and other complications if it is left untreated. Your doctor can give you professional advice about the ways to prevent bacterial vaginosis and other vaginal infections.