Every woman understands the importance of bacterial balance in the vagina. There is a mix of good and bad bacteria in the vagina, and the good bacteria helps in controlling the growth of the bad ones. Bacterial vaginosis (also known as BV) is a mild infection caused when there are not enough good bacteria and an excess of the bad.
The experts haven’t yet uncovered the precise causes of BV, but it is known that certain things will put you more at risk. They include having multiple sexual partners or a new partner, pregnancy, douching and a natural lack of lactobacilli bacteria. The vagina is a self-cleaning organ, and douching can upset the natural bacterial balance.
What Are The Symptoms?
The main common symptom is an unpleasant-smelling vaginal discharge. While discharge occurs for the majority of women, if it is thin, gray or green there could be an infection present. The discharge should be clear and has no smell. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it’s advisable to seek medical attention.
Around half the number of women who have bacterial vaginosis never notice the symptoms. Many of the symptoms are subtle enough that they may be ha
rd to notice. Vaginal discharge can also by caused by a number of different factors, so it can be challenging to identify the cause.
Once you notice the above symptoms, visit the doctor for the right test and treatment.
Effective Treatment
If you visit your doctor for the test and the results are positive, you will be prescribed antibiotics that will help to treat the infection. You will be given oral antibiotics which should help to clear the infection within 2 to 3 days, but the dosage is typically administered over seven days. Some women recover without the use of antibiotics, but in many cases, it is a recurring condition.
Metronidazole is the most effective antibiotic, and it is available in three forms
- A gel that you will be required to apply to your vagina
- A large tablet that you are needed to take only once and
- Small tablets that are taken twice a day for a total of five (5) to seven (7) days
Your doctor will prescribe the best treatment dosage for you.
Can It Be Prevented?
Well, it is hard to stop it since it can also happen to someone who has never had sexual intercourse but it is such a rare case. But there is a way you can reduce the risks, such as;
- Avoid multiple sexual partners but if you find yourself in such a situation, ensure that you use protection.
- Do not Douche – douching will clear the good bacteria that control the growth of the harmful bacteria.
- Take Water – water has excellent benefits to our bodies. It will help to balance the PH level in the vagina.
Bacterial Vaginosis is not a lethal infection, but it can be traumatising when not treated. Don’t be afraid to visit your health care centre for test and treatment.