Feb 25 2008
Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is a result from an overgrowth of normal bacteria in the vagina that can produce a vaginal discharge. Usually a mild problem and not sexually transmitted, it tends to go away in a few days but can lead to serious problems if it does not and it goes untreated. It is also often mistaken for a yeast infection. Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most frequent occurring infections in the vagina that affects anywhere from 10-64% of women at any given time.
Common symptoms for bacterial vaginosis are a smelly vaginal discharge either white or yellow in color. A sure sign of this infection is a fishy smell, which tends to be worse after intercourse. This infection can be diagnosed by doing a pelvic exam where your doctor will take a sample of the vaginal discharge and test it to find out if it is for sure bacterial vaginosis.
Although this infection will sometimes go away on its own and is not considered harmful, in some cases it can still cause health problems. If you are pregnant it can increase the risk of miscarriage, early delivery and uterine infection after pregnancy.
If you have a c-section, abortion or hysterectomy, then it’s more likely you will have a pelvic infection. If you are currently suffering with bacterial vaginosis and you are exposed to a sexually transmitted dieses including HIV, you are more likely to catch that disease.
This infection can be treated a few different ways. If you suffer from this infection, your doctor may prescribe to you, pills or maybe some type of cream or gel that may have to be put into the vagina. If you are prescribed any type of medications from your doctor, it’s important to take them exactly as your doctor tells you.
There are several types of way’s to help you to prevent getting bacterial vaginosis. The best way to avoid infection or any type of STD, is to not have intercourse. If you do have intercourse, stay faithful to your partner, avoid multiple sex partners, and use a condom. Another way to help try to prevent getting bacterial vaginosis is to stay away from douching. Douching removes all of the normal bacteria in the vagina that helps to fight against infections.