Bacterial vaginosis is an inflammation in the vagina. It’s caused by an overgrowth of bacteria and causes a vaginal discharge that has a fish like odor that can also be milky white, yellow or a gray like color. Doctor’s are unable to determine one cause that can cause this infection, since there are many different types of natural bacteria that live in the vagina, however one cause of overgrowth can cause this infection. There are many different types of medications as well as natural remedies that can be used to treat this infection, however over the counter treatment for bacterial vaginosis is limited.

When diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis your doctor may prescribe you some type of antibiotic such as metronidazole and clindamycin. Over the counter treatment for bacterial vaginosis is limited. There are such things as a vaginal gel called Rephresh, boric acid capsules, lactobacillus can also be used.

If you feel like you do have this infection then it’s best to consult your doctor to have it treated right away. Some symptoms can include, burning while urinating, itching and the area around the vagina may feel very tender. In some cases bacterial vaginosis may go away on its own or some women may not have any symptoms, however if it is left untreated it can cause addition health problems.

Bacterial vaginosis is known to increase the chance of acquiring a sexually transmitted disease, that’s including HIV. It’s been known in some cases of pregnant women to give birth prematurely and it’s also associated with pelvic inflammatory disease, especially following surgical procedures such as an abortion, hysterectomy and c-section. So if you are pregnant and you think you are suffering from bacterial vaginosis, consult your doctor so that you can have it treated right away.

Even though there are some over the counter treatment for bacterial vaginosis, you may want to consult your doctor first before you go and spend your hard earned money. The only reason is that, this type of infection can often times be confused with a yeast infection or trichomoniasis.

All three of these infections are vaginitis and often times they can get mistaken for one or the other. The best bet is to consult your doctor so they can take an example of the vaginal discharge to best determine which infection you have, so that you will be able to have it treated right away.

Share This

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.

Share This

The term used for a bacterial infection in the vagina is bacterial vaginosis, or BV. This condition occurs when the fragile vaginal flora is disrupted and the pH level in the vagina becomes unbalanced. There are good bacteria in the body, known as lactobacillus, that keep this situation in check. However, if an unhealthy organism is given the chance to reproduce and outnumber the good bacteria, a vaginal infection can develop. There are remedies for bacterial vaginosis available that are very effective in curing and infection and reducing the risk of recurrence in the future.

If you experience any signs or symptoms of a vaginal infection, it is important to see your doctor will run tests to determine what the cause of your condition is and who will recommend a treatment plan based on the results of your tests. As some vaginal infections exhibit similar warning signs, it is necessary to verify the source of the problem.

Remedies for bacterial vaginosis usually begin with a course of antibiotics prescribed by your physician to attack the bacteria causing the infection as quickly as possible to prevent spreading and damage to the tissues involved. Your doctor may also recommend a vitamin and mineral supplement to help boost your immune system to aid in the healing process.

Consumption of yogurt and milk products that contain active acidophilus cultures may be suggested. These cultures are known to help maintain the acidic environment in the vagina where the lactobacillus live and defend against infection. If you have an infection, acidophilus cultures can help the body rejuvenate itself, correct the imbalance in the vaginal flora, and allow the good bacteria to regain its dominance.

Garlic, one of natures wonders, has proven to be quite effective in assisting the body to recover from many ailments. The strong antibacterial properties it contains help to strengthen the immune system and protect against unhealthy organisms. Herbal medicines such as tea tree oil and Echinacea have been touted as beneficial as treatment alternatives.

However, if you are pregnant or on other prescribed medications, it is highly recommended to consult with your doctor before using any organic product as serious complications and side effects can arise. Some herbs can be detrimental during pregnancy and some can cause dangerous conditions if they interact with other drugs. In any case, if you suspect you have or are developing an vaginal infection, see your doctor to discuss what remedies for bacterial vaginosis or other type you are experiencing would be most beneficial to you.

Share This