Bacterial Vaginosis – A Short Overview and Treatment Methods

Studies show that 1 in 3 women will develop bacterial vaginosis (BV) at some point of their lives. BV or Bacterial Vaginosis can cause both physical and emotional discomfort on a woman. Contrary to what others believe, this condition is not considered as sexually transmitted. It is caused by an imbalance of both the good and bad bacteria inside the vagina.

The most common symptoms of bacterial vaginosis are itchiness, irritation, and white vaginal discharge characterized by a strong fishy odor. This odor can be embarrassing for a woman. In some instances, a woman may feel discomfort while urinating or pain after having sex. Ignoring the symptoms of BV can cause other serious complications. It may be an increased vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections such as HIV. Aggravated infection may also lead to Pelvic Inflammatory disease or PID. To prevent the development of other diseases, immediate treatment must be administered.

Use of Antibiotics

The most common treatment for this bacterial infection is the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics can be taken orally or topically. Treatments may vary in principle. In the case of using antibiotics, the principle is to eliminate unwanted bacteria that cause the infection.

Use of Buffers

Treatments using buffers can also be used. Buffers are known to balance the pH within the vaginal area. Balancing vaginal pH helps fight infection-causing bacteria. The use of feminine wash is an example of this kind of remedy.

Use of Lactic Bacteria

Another principle is to add lactic bacteria in the vagina. Some feminine wash may contain this. Lactobacillus products are known to promote healthy vaginal environment.

Aside from usual over-the-counter prescription drugs, naturopathic doctors recommend alternative remedies. Many people feel more comfortable using this kind of treatment. However, most prescription drugs have harmful side effects. Moreover, prescription drugs such as antibiotics are costly compared to alternative medicines which are more often cheap if not free.

Water

Drinking a lot of water daily has its own benefits. It not just helps replenish the fluids lost during exercise, but it is also good in flushing out harmful bacteria in the body. Water is also a good cleaning solution if mixed with apple cider vinegar. A woman can have instant bathing or douching solution by mixing a cup of vinegar in a hot tub.

Garlic

Garlic is known for its strong antibacterial properties. Although it is not recommended to be put directly in the vagina, mixing its juice with yogurt can also be an effective douche. Tampons can also be soaked in the mixture before use.

Possibly Related Posts:

• One Good Reason Why You Struggle Getting Rid Of Bacterial Vaginosis
• The Do’s and Don’t of Bacterial Vaginosis Treatments
• Treating Bacterial Vaginosis Effectively
• Defining Bacterial Vaginosis Symptom and Treating Them
• Determining If You Have Bacterial Vaginosis through the Symptoms